Psoriasis Overview

Psoriasis is a problem that affects the skin. Normally, it takes about a month for skin to grow from its bottom to top layers. In psoriasis, skin grows much faster. This causes skin to pile up in thick patches that hurt, itch, crack, and often bleed. These patches are covered by a silvery white scale. It is thought that psoriasis is caused by a very sensitive immune (defense) system. The immune system is your body's way of fighting infection by bacteria or viruses. Psoriasis can be worse at some times than others. Worsening can be triggered by stress, infections, dryness, sunburn, and certain medications.

Psoriasis affects more than 4.5 million Americans. Most cases are mild, but some can be very severe.

While there is no cure for psoriasis, treatments can include creams and ointments. Ultraviolet light treatments can be used with or without an oral drug called psoralen. Stronger oral drugs with serious side effects have been used for worse cases of psoriasis. Most recently, several biologic therapies have been approved for use in psoriasis that has failed other treatments. These drugs are given into the vein or injected into muscle. They include Amevive® (alefacept), Raptiva® (efalizumab), Remicade® (infliximab) and Enbrel® (etanercept). These drugs interfere with the immune system and carry increased risks.

Living with Psoriasis

In its severe form, psoriasis can be hard to deal with. Seek people that can help you cope and people with whom you can talk to. This can include friends, family, a support group, social worker, or counselor. Take an active role in your treatment.

It is important to learn all you can about psoriasis. To learn more, please visit: www.psoriasis.org.

Healthy Pointers:

• Eat a healthy and nutritious diet.
• Eat foods rich in omega-3 fat, including salmon and fish oils.
• Maintain a healthy weight.
• Avoid alcohol.
• Bathe daily, avoiding harsh soaps and hot water.
• Use skin moisturizers.
• Avoid being in the sun too much.

Questions? Call us at 1.888.282.5166 or email us.

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