Psoriasis is a skin condition characterized by rashes that vary widely between patients. It can be itchy and painful, causing cracked, dry skin or patches of scaly skin. Psoriasis can affect your finger and toenails, and there’s even a closely related joint condition called psoriatic arthritis.
Dermatologist Roy Seidenberg, MD, treats a wide range of skin rashes, including those associated with psoriasis, a common yet chronic condition without a cure.
There are numerous misconceptions and myths surrounding psoriasis, so in honor of Psoriasis Action Month in August, we’re taking this opportunity to debunk eight of the most persistent bits of misinformation. Here’s what you need to know for a clear view of what psoriasis is and how it affects you.
Psoriasis is an inflammatory skin condition caused by problems with the immune system. Your body produces an overabundance of skin cells in patches where psoriasis breaks out. No one can catch the disease by touching your rash or coming into contact with you in any way.
While stress can trigger a psoriasis episode, it’s not a cause of the condition. Your immune system responds to stress in a similar way to when it triggers psoriasis. Stress management techniques may be useful in reducing the frequency and severity of psoriasis outbreaks.
While the symptoms of psoriasis appear on your skin, the causes originate deep within your body. These origins of the condition can also affect joints, causing pain and limiting mobility.
The size of a psoriasis rash isn’t the only measure of severity. The type and location of psoriasis outbreaks, called plaques, may affect your symptoms. You may also have reasonable concerns about how psoriasis affects your appearance.
You won’t develop psoriasis by not washing enough. There’s no relationship between the effects of psoriasis and how clean or dirty your skin is.
As an autoimmune condition, psoriasis has a different origin from eczema, which is largely caused by allergic reactions. Children often experience eczema, which can improve as they get older, whereas psoriasis, a lifelong condition, is less common in children.
Omega-3 oils found in fatty fish tend to help any inflammatory condition in your body, and they can calm a psoriasis outbreak. Other foods can be pro-inflammatory and exacerbate psoriasis. These include dairy, high-fat red meats, processed foods, and refined sugars.
Psoriasis can’t be cured, though research is ongoing, and there may be breakthroughs in the future. You can, however, effectively manage psoriasis and its symptoms through a wide range of medical treatment options.
Control of your symptoms begins with a visit to Roy Seidenberg, MD, at his Midtown East, New York office. Call or click to request an appointment today.
