Written and medically reviewed by Dorcas Morak, Pharm.D
Every August, the National Psoriasis Foundation (NPF) celebrates Psoriasis Awareness Month to bring attention to this chronic skin condition affecting millions worldwide. This month is an opportunity to educate the public, support new research, and provide a sense of community for those affected by Psoriasis. Understanding Psoriasis, its causes, symptoms, and treatment options can help clear up misconceptions and reduce the stigma surrounding it.
What is Psoriasis?
Psoriasis is an autoimmune skin condition where skin cells build up rapidly, creating thick, scaly patches that are itchy and uncomfortable. It is chronic, can flare up anytime, and has no cure. The exact cause isn't fully understood, but it involves an overactive immune system speeding up skin cell growth from 30 days to 3-4 days.
What are the Types of Psoriasis?
There are several types of Psoriasis, each with unique symptoms. They are:
- Plaque Psoriasis
- Inverse Psoriasis
- Guttate Psoriasis
- Pustular Psoriasis
- Erythrodermic Psoriasis
- Sebopsoriasis
- Nail Psoriasis
What are the Common Symptoms of Psoriasis?
Psoriasis symptoms can vary from person to person but generally include:
- Thick, red patches of skin with silvery scales.
- Dry, cracked skin that may bleed.
- Itching, burning, or soreness.
- Pitted, cracked, or crumbly nails.
- Swollen and stiff joints (psoriatic arthritis).
What can Trigger Psoriasis?
Several factors can trigger or worsen Psoriasis, including:
- Stress
- Infections such as strep throat
- Skin injuries like cuts or sunburn
- Certain medications, including Lithium and beta-blockers, such as Propranolol, Atenolol or Metoprolol.
- Cold weather
How is Psoriasis Diagnosed?
Psoriasis is usually diagnosed by examining the skin. Sometimes, a biopsy is done to rule out other skin disorders. Once diagnosed, treatment options depend on the severity and location of the condition.
What are the Treatment Options for Psoriasis?
Psoriasis treatment options can be topical or systemic. The topical treatment options include:
- Steroid Creams: Help reduce inflammation and slow the rapid skin cell turnover. E.g., Clobetasol, Triamcinolone and Hydrocortisone
- Moisturizers: Prevent dry skin and reduce scaling. E.g. Atoderm Cream, CeraVe Psoriasis Cream, and DermaER
- Anthralin: Slows down skin cell production and removes scales.
- Vitamin D Analogues: Slow down the growth of skin cells. E.g. Calcipotriene (Sorilux)
- Retinoids: Help normalize DNA activity in skin cells and reduce inflammation.
Systemic treatments may be necessary for more severe cases of Psoriasis. These include:
- Methotrexate (Trexall): Reduces the production of skin cells and suppresses inflammation. However, it can cause liver damage and other serious side effects.
- Cyclosporine (Cequa) suppresses the immune system and reduces skin cell turnover, but it can also cause high blood pressure and kidney problems.
- Biologics: Target specific parts of the immune system. Examples include drugs like adalimumab (Humira) and etanercept (Enbrel).
- Retinoids: Related to vitamin A, help reduce skin cell production but can cause significant side effects.
Other treatment options include phototherapy and PUVA. PUVA combines a medication called psoralen with exposure to ultraviolet A (UVA) light.
The cost of Psoriasis medications can add up. When you need medicine for your treatment plan you can use RxLess for guaranteed savings. Finding discounts on your medication is easy:
- Join the RxLess Assurance plan by downloading our free app.
- Search for your prescribed medicine and choose the best-priced coupon in your area.
- Show the coupon at your chosen pharmacy and save instantly!
