August is National Psoriasis Awareness Month

Kacey Flores, PA-C, Physician Assistant, Coastal Gateway Health Center

What is psoriasis?

Psoriasis (pronounced seh-RYE-eh-siss) is a chronic inflammatory skin disease that causes a rash with itchy, scaly patches, most commonly on the knees, elbows, trunk, and scalp. It is a very common condition that affects more than 8 million adults in the United States! Psoriasis affects males and females equally. It can begin at any age; however, onset during adulthood is most frequent.

What causes psoriasis?

The exact cause of psoriasis is not known. Experts do know that the body’s immune system, which fights infections, is involved. Overactive immune system cells make skin cells grow much faster than the body can shed them, so they pile up as plaques on the skin. We do know that this condition is hereditary or runs in families – about 40% of people with psoriasis have a family member who has it. However, it is possible to develop psoriasis even if you have no family history of the disease.

A triggering event may cause a change in the immune system, resulting in the onset of psoriasis symptoms. Common triggers for psoriasis include stress, illness, injury to the skin, weather changes, and certain medications. Psoriasis is not contagious. It cannot spread from person to person.

Types of Psoriasis

There are many different types of psoriasis. The most common type is Plaque Psoriasis, which causes raised, red patches of skin covered by silvery-white scales. Another common type is Psoriatic Arthritis, which not only affects the skin but also causes stiffness and progressive joint damage.  

Is psoriasis curable?

There is currently no cure for psoriasis. However, long-term remission is possible.  Psoriasis treatments aim to stop skin cells from growing so quickly and to remove scales. Treatment depends on how severe your psoriasis is and how responsive it has been to previous treatment(s) and self-care measures. Options include creams and ointments (topical therapy), light therapy (phototherapy), and oral or injected medications. Often, combination therapy is used. Even with successful treatment, the disease usually returns.

Coping with psoriasis can be a challenge, especially if the affected skin covers a large area of your body and is visible to others. It can cause discomfort and embarrassment. Some ways to help you cope include educating yourself and others about the disease, following your healthcare provider’s recommendations, finding a support group, using cover-ups as needed, and reducing stress in your life.

Psoriasis Awareness Month unites people living with psoriasis for the month of August, so they can support each other and champion the common goal of finding a cure for psoriasis.

Coastal Gateway Health Center can be reached by phone at 409.296.4444 or by email at [email protected].  For more information regarding our services and programs, please visit our website at www.coastalgatewayhc.org or find and follow us on Facebook.  We are proud to be #yourcommunityhealthcenter.