Psoriasis: Risk Factors and Treatment

A common disease which manifests as thickened patches of red or inflamed skin masked by silvery scales is known by the name psoriasis. The common areas affected by this condition include the knees and the elbows. Psoriasis generally appears on both sides of the body in the same place. The patches can vary in size and can cause irritation if left untreated.

When a person suffers from psoriasis, the cell maturation takes place quickly in about 3-4 days. Dead cells group together as thick patches on the epidermis layer of the skin because the skin cells in the lower layer starts to divide rapidly. Though Psoriasis is considered to be a chronic skin disorder of unknown origin, heredity seems to be an important factor as far as its susceptibility is concerned.

A number of factors such as climatic changes, stress, HIV infection, physical illness, superficial wounds or consumption of specific drugs such as antimalarial and depression medications can trigger this condition.

Though there is no effective cure for psoriasis presently, there are several treatments which can clear the skin of psoriasis temporarily. In some patients, psoriasis can recur without treatment. Most patients use some form of topical therapy or steroid creams to get rid of this problem.

The various treatments to get relief from psoriasis include topical therapy which is used to treat moderate to mild psoriasis, use of moisturizers to reduce discomfort and soften scaly skin conditions, ointments and steroid creams to minimize inflammation etc. For treating mild to moderate plaque psoriasis, Tazarotene (Tazorac) is a topical retinoid which is prescribed by doctors. Physicians also prescribe Anthralin or other coal tar preparations which can help in slowing skin cell reproduction. Mineral salts, oatmeal additives or other bath solutions can also help to soothe skin and encourage healing.