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How to Alleviate Psoriasis Symptoms

Contributor
By DrJewell
eHow Contributing Writer
(0 Ratings)

Psoriasis, one of the most common skin diseases, is described as a chronic, non-contagious autoimmune disease that affects the skin and joints. Patients most commonly experience irritation, including red inflamed areas of skin around the fingernails and toenails, but can also be affected in other areas. Although the severity of psoriasis varies from case to case, it is always inconvenient to say the least. You may find yourself anxious or self-conscious as you attempt to cover such affected areas. Whether you or someone you are close to is experiencing a mild or severe case of psoriasis--here are some tips on how to treat it.

Difficulty: Easy
Instructions
  1. Step 1

    Believe it or not, it helps not to stress. Of course, it’s easier said than done, but it is indicated that psoriasis is aggravated by stress. Be sure to make time for doing things that calm you, like meditation, yoga, relaxation exercises. You may find yourself anxious or self-conscious as you attempt to cover such your psoriasis, but remember that in general, people are not conscious about other people’s problems, so try to do things to help you take the edge off. When something is beginning to bother you, try to stop thinking about it until you can assess such topics in a level-minded manner.

  2. Step 2

    Be sure your skin is getting healthy amounts of sun exposure, which helps to reduce the affects of psoriasis. However, it is also suggested that you avoid the sun from the hours of 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., as this is when the sun’s rays have the most harmful potential.

  3. Step 3

    In addition to what your doctor prescribes, try over-the-counter medications. Psoriasis treatments can attempt to treat the condition topically by direct application to the skin or systematically through orally taken medications. Try common products such as bathing with oatmeal or Dead Sea salt. It is also important to moisturize your skin regularly (even for people who do not have psoriasis). Suggested oral remedies include: Vitamins A and B, zinc and shark cartilage.

  4. Step 4

    Avoid washing your skin too much. With any skin condition, one of the most common misconceptions is that you should wash your skin as much as possible. However, soaps usually contain ingredients that will over dry your skin if used too frequently. It is also advisable, when drying your skin with a towel or wash cloth, to blot lightly instead of rubbing.

  5. Step 5

    Keep in mind that psoriasis is a condition for which you should try to take on as little prescribed treatment as possible. Try things in small or moderate doses to start and add more as needed. The goal, as with most conditions, is to treat psoriasis with the least amount of side effects.

Tips & Warnings
  • Suggested treatment products include: anthralin, salicylic acid, corticosteroid creams, Epsom salts, Dead Sea salts, tar-based shampoos, aloe vera gel, jojoba oil, Vitamins A and B, natural vegetable oils, flaxseed oil, evening primrose oil, beta-carotene, zinc (gluconate lozenges), shark cartilage, alcohol-free extract of goldenseal herb.
  • Avoid red meats and dairy products.
  • This article is not a substitute for seeking medical consultation with your own medical doctor.

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