psoriasis

What is psoriasis?

Psoriasis, also known as psoriasis, is a chronic inflammatory autoimmune disease that affects around 3% of the population in western industrialized nations. The term is derived from the ancient Greek word "psora" (scabies), which describes the visible, scaly patches of skin. The disease progresses in phases and can occur at any age, often accompanied by severe itching.

The symptoms vary depending on the form and severity of the disease. Typically affected areas are elbows, knees, back and scalp. Raised, reddened and silvery-scaly areas develop there, which are caused by accelerated skin renewal. While healthy skin renews itself approximately every 28 days, in people with psoriasis this process takes place within just 3-4 days. This rapid cell production leads to an accumulation of dead skin cells that form scales and scabby areas, often associated with painful cracks.

Psoriasis is not curable, and the symptoms can have a huge impact on the lives of those affected - both physically and emotionally. However, there is hope: in rare cases, the disease can regress for years or even completely for no apparent reason.

causes of psoriasis

The exact causes of psoriasis are still unclear. It seems that a combination of genetic predisposition and environmental factors play a role. Possible causes include:

• Genetic factors: A familial clustering indicates a genetic predisposition.
• Hormonal and emotional triggers: Stress or traumatic experiences can trigger or worsen the condition.
• Lifestyle and underlying diseases: Obesity or other underlying diseases such as diabetes increase the risk.
• External influences: Cold, smoking or certain infections can promote psoriasis flare-ups.

Treatment options for psoriasis

There is currently no cure for psoriasis, but a variety of therapies can alleviate the symptoms. Treatments range from external applications to systemic therapies to modern biologics. Each form of therapy has its advantages and disadvantages.

• Topical treatments:
  • Salicylic acid: Removes dead skin cells and reduces inflammation, but long-term use can damage skin tissue.
  • Tar ointments: have an anti-inflammatory effect, but are considered carcinogenic if used for a long time.
  • Cortisone preparations: Suppress the immune reaction and reduce swelling and redness. However, long-term side effects such as increased blood pressure and thinning of the skin can occur relatively frequently.
  • Urea: Moisturizes, but can further irritate sensitive psoriasis skin and weaken the skin barrier.
• Light therapy (PUVA therapy): This involves treating affected areas of skin with UV-A radiation in combination with the drug psoralen. However, this form of therapy is associated with risks such as increased susceptibility to sunburn, pigment disorders and an increased risk of skin cancer.
• Systemic medications and biologics: In severe cases, medications such as fumaric acid or biotechnologically developed biologics are used that specifically intervene in the immune system. These are often expensive and have side effects, but show a significant improvement in symptoms in some patients.

Self-help and everyday tips for relieving psoriasis

In addition to medical treatment, some lifestyle changes can help relieve symptoms and prevent flare-ups. These measures have a supportive effect and promote skin health.

• Healthy skin care: Affected areas of skin require rich, moisturizing care that provides moisture and strengthens the skin barrier. We recommend using products such as myrto Bio Argan facial care, which does not contain any emulsifiers or irritating additives and soothes sensitive psoriasis skin. We have compiled the products that have proven effective for psoriasis above.
• Strengthening the immune system: Many sufferers also suffer from intestinal problems, which further strains the immune system. Building up a healthy intestinal flora, for example through probiotic foods or nutritional supplements, strengthens the immune system and can thus alleviate skin problems.
• Stress management: Since stress is often a trigger for psoriasis flare-ups, it is advisable to integrate stress reduction techniques such as yoga, progressive muscle relaxation or mindfulness exercises into your daily routine. It is equally important to reduce perfectionism and maintain social contacts in order to increase well-being.
• Diet: A balanced diet with as unprocessed, alkaline foods as possible helps to relieve the body. Healthy fats with omega-3 fatty acids from hemp oil, linseed oil or walnut oil have an anti-inflammatory effect and can alleviate symptoms. Sugar, alcohol and processed products should be avoided.

Psoriasis is a chronic disease that presents many challenges to those affected. However, with an individually tailored combination of therapy, a healthy lifestyle and care, the quality of life can be significantly improved. Long-term changes, stress management and mindful skin care play a central role.