Psoriasis: Breaking the 5 Myths

Psoriasis is an auto-immune disease, which manifests on the skin and is usually seen as red, crusty patches on the surface of the skin. Psoriasis can affect any part of the body and there is an equal risk of the disease affecting both men and women.

However, it is important to know that psoriasis affects more than just your skin. Sadly, even those who suffer from psoriasis continue to live by many myths. Psoriasis is not curable. The best you can do is to manage the condition with the right treatment. In order to manage the spread of psoriasis, it is important to be aware of a few facts:

Myth: Psoriasis is just a skin disease

Fact: Psoriasis is actually an autoimmune disorder. In its typical form, psoriasis results in patches of thick, red (inflamed) skin covered with silvery scales. These patches, which are sometimes referred to as plaques, usually itch or feel sore. They most often occur on the elbows, knees, other parts of the legs, scalp, lower back, face, palms, and soles of the feet, but they can occur on skin anywhere on the body. The disease may also affect the fingernails, the toenails, and the soft tissues of the genitals, and inside the mouth. Although it is not unusual for the skin around affected joints to crack, some people with psoriasis experience joint inflammation that produces symptoms of arthritis. This condition is called psoriatic arthritis.What’s more is that, psoriasis is closely linked to the risk of developing other health disorders like heart attack, diabetes, cholesterol, etc. Of course, the risk increases as the spread of psoriasis becomes more severe.

Myth: Psoriaisis is contagious:

Fact:No, psoriasis is not contagious. It is not something you can "catch" or "pass on." Lesions of psoriasis may be unsightly, but they should not be regarded as an infection or an open wound. An individual with psoriasis poses no threat to the health or safety of others.

Myth: Psoriasis is curable

Fact: There is no known cure however there are many different treatments, both topical and systemic, that can clear psoriasis for periods of time. Experimentation is often required to find a treatment that works for a particular person.

Myth: Vaccination keeps you healthy

Fact: Psoriasis is an autoimmune condition so it does affect your ability to fight other diseases. Getting yourself vaccinated against whatever possible, will help. However, ensure that your doctor is aware of your psoriatic condition while prescribing your vaccination. Unless your body is put on certain specific medications that suppress immunity, your immune system is not compromised. Getting vaccines with psoriasis is important because some medications you may be taking for the condition can increase your risk for certain diseases that vaccinations help prevent.There can, however, be side effects of immunizations. Knowing the whole story will help you make the right choices.

Myth: Only the affected area will itch

Fact: Psoriasis lesions will of course have itching. But, that’s not the only place where you are likely to experience the discomfort. Even in places where the psoriasis has not spread, you can experience itching. This could be a sign and so it’s best to keep your eyes open.

Myth: Psoriasis never affects mental health

Fact: In extreme cases, psoriasis can affect the appearance of the external skin surface. This can lead to depression and affect the mental health of the individuals. Basically, those suffering from psoriasis are at a higher risk of developing depression. As the psoriasis spreads,the condition worsens. In extreme cases, patients have also reported suicidal thoughts.

Myth: Psoriasis can be managed by medication alone

Fact: Psoriasis management requires medication as well as some major lifestyle changes. Both go hand in hand and neither is as effective without the support of the other. Lifestyle changes include following a healthy diet, regularly exercising, etc. These changes contribute majorly towards improving the overall health of the individual.