Understanding Psoriasis

Eimear Nee, the Allcare Pharmacy trainer, discusses Psoriasis and some handy tips on how to treat it. 

What is Psoriasis?

Psoriasis is a long-term inflammatory condition of the skin. It affects over 2% of the world's population and affects women and men equally. Psoriasis occurs when the immune system sends out faulty signals causing the overproduction of skin cells, which clump together to form what are called plaques. There are several different types of psoriasis.

Psoriasis can have a significant impact on a person’s quality of life, with low self-esteem often reported in those with severe symptoms. You can speak to a GP or healthcare team if you have psoriasis and you have any concerns about your physical and mental wellbeing. They can offer advice and further treatment if necessary.

What are the symptoms of psoriasis?

Plaque psoriasis symptoms include red, raised, flaky patches of skin that have a silvery, scaly appearance. Patches normally occur on the scalp, elbows, knees, and lower back but can occur anywhere on the body. They are often itchy and painful.

Psoriasis often develops before the age of 35. Symptoms tend to follow a flare-up/remission pattern where symptoms might be present for a few weeks before easing or stopping again. It is more likely to develop if someone in the family also has the condition.

What is psoriatic arthritis?

Psoriasis mostly affects the skin, but it is also quite common to develop tenderness, swelling, stiffness, and pain in the joints, known as psoriatic arthritis.

What are common psoriasis triggers?

Stress or infection are common triggers for psoriasis flare-ups. Smoking, alcohol, and certain medicines can also be triggering.

Can psoriasis be treated?

Diagnosis and treatment plan for psoriasis must be made by a GP or dermatologist. Although there is no cure for psoriasis, there are several options available to help manage the symptoms. Many of these are available on prescription only.

How is psoriasis managed?

Psoriasis is typically managed with creams, ointments, oral or injectable medicines.

Phototherapy is also used, where the skin is exposed to UV light.

It is important to keep the area hydrated with emollients, applied regularly, even when the skin is clear. Some emollients containing urea can gently help to remove the excessive skin cells.

Dovonex Psoriasis ointment, available over the counter, helps to reduce psoriasis symptoms on the trunk and limbs of adults aged 18 years and older who have been previously diagnosed with plaque psoriasis by their doctor. It helps to prevent excessive skin cell turnover. It must only be supplied by the pharmacist, following a structured consultation and counseling process.

Speak to your GP or an Allcare pharmacist if you would like any further information on psoriasis or the treatment options available to manage the condition.