Although it was rare till sometimes back, but in the present scenario Psoriasis is found in about 30% of the population. The most pathetic thing about the disease is that it has visual impact on the sufferer. This is so oddly evident that the poor patient becomes a victim of prejudice and discrimination. Although the present generation is considered as educated and psoriasis no longer remains as a disease that is less common or totally unknown, still the stigma against the disease that exists in the society is really shameful. It is very shocking that people think the disease as highly infectious and contagious and the patients are often denied participation in public gatherings or social functions. This creates a sense of extreme humiliation and frustration among the patients. But, it has already been proved that the disease is neither infectious nor contagious at all. It can only occur due to genetic factors and some other medical causes. Therefore, sticking to some do’s and don’ts will improve the social and medical conditions of psoriasis sufferers.
Do’s
Visit a dermatologist immediately
If you think that there are signs of skin problems that may point to psoriasis, then it is never wise to keep your feelings confined within yourself. The first and foremost thing you must do is to seek a medical suggestion. Take appointment with a doctor as soon as possible and let him diagnose your disease. In the process of diagnosis, never conceal anything about your disease in a hope that revealing everything may hint at psoriasis.
Keep your skin hydrated
Psoriasis occurs mostly in dry skin conditions. Likewise, a patient suffering from psoriasis suffers mostly from complications of dry skin. Therefore, it is extremely essential to keep your skin well lubricated and hydrated. It is also true that moisturized skin shows the dry patches of psoriasis less. Use some lightweight lotions or natural oils like olive oil or coconut oil on your skin regularly.
Bath regularly
It is essential that you take bath regularly to loose up the scales that arise on the skin during psoriasis. It is more beneficial if you can take a daily bath of lukewarm water. The skin and the dry scales will be softened by the process. Adding oatmeal, finely powdered sea salt, fine granular coal tar, etc. will exfoliate the accumulated dead cells gently thereby giving rise to scaly patches.
Face the situation bravely
Psoriasis often leaves the victims frustrated and devastated, which is an aftermath of the social discrimination that they face. If you suffer similar such situation, it is always best to face people boldly. Since you are well aware of the disease and how it is spread why will you shy away from people? Rather, talk to the people around you about psoriasis and let them know about its facts in a knowledgeable manner.
Don’ts
Stay away from direct sun exposure
Patients suffering from psoriasis are always advised to limit sun exposure as much as possible. Thus, sun bathing and tanning beds are not for you if you have psoriasis as this disease encourages the occurrence of skin cancer more. In case of unavoidable situations, limit your sun exposure to a maximum of fifteen minutes only. Never forget to cover the exposed parts of your body fully and liberal application of sunscreen lotion with minimum SPF 15 when you step out of your home.
Avoid extreme exfoliation
Gentle and natural exfoliation is recommended for psoriasis. But patients are seriously discouraged from extreme rubbing and scrubbing of the dry lesions with any harsh chemicals, products or materials. This can irritate the skin and aggravate the situation by making the scales bleed and inflame.
Do not discontinue your treatment midway
Even though it may be very disappointing to know that psoriasis is the disease of lifetime, it is essential that you follow the treatment. Therefore, if after certain sessions of medication and treatments, the symptoms of the disease subside, do not mistake it by thinking that you have got fully cured. It is just a positive hint that your disease is responding positively to the treatment that you are undergoing. Thus, it is never good to discontinue medication altogether.
Never ignore the disease
Psoriasis tends to flare up during a particular season. In case of majority, it is the winter that makes the condition worse while in others it is summer which flares up the disease. So, never neglect the disease at all even if your symptoms have totally subsided. Before the change of season, consult your dermatologist and take his necessary advices that you need to follow methodically to ensure the disease remains at bay.