How is Psoriasis Diagnosed?
Psoriasis is usually diagnosed by a careful physical examination by a dermatologist. In the first stage, the type, colour and distribution of the patient's skin lesions are observed. The thickness of the plaques and the structure of the scales on them are important in distinguishing psoriasis from other skin diseases. To support the diagnosis, a skin biopsy is sometimes performed. This procedure involves taking a small sample of tissue from the lesioned area and examining it under a microscope and provides a definitive diagnosis of the disease.
Family history and the patient's medical history are also taken into account in the diagnostic process, as psoriasis is associated with a genetic predisposition. Furthermore, the link of the disease with other autoimmune disorders can be assessed. The accuracy of the diagnosis plays a critical role in formulating the appropriate treatment plan.
Is Psoriasis Contagious?
First of all, it should be emphasized that psoriasis is definitely not contagious. Psoriasis is a condition that occurs as a result of a combination of genetic predisposition, immune system problems and environmental factors. It is not transmitted from person to person through contact or any other method of transmission.
Psoriasis is characterized by lesions that can cause redness, flaking and itching on the skin. These symptoms can be concentrated in certain areas of the body and can flare up from time to time. The severity of the disease can vary from person to person and can negatively affect quality of life. However, with the right treatment and care methods, the symptoms of psoriasis can be controlled and patients can live a more comfortable life.
In our clinic, we offer comprehensive services in the treatment and management of psoriasis. With our personalized treatment plans, the most up-to-date medical approaches and holistic health services, we aim to improve the quality of life of psoriasis patients.
Who Gets Psoriasis?
Psoriasis is a skin disease that can be seen in all age groups and genders, but some people are more likely to develop this disease. Psoriasis usually occurs between the ages of 15-35, but it can also be seen in childhood or in older ages. Genetic predisposition plays an important role in the development of psoriasis; people with a family history of psoriasis are at higher risk of developing the disease.
Immune system problems can also play a role in the development of psoriasis. When the immune system is overactive, skin cells multiply faster than normal, leading to the symptoms of psoriasis. In addition, environmental factors such as stress, infections, skin injuries and certain medications can also cause the disease to flare up.
How to Treat Psoriasis?
Although it is not possible to completely eliminate psoriasis because it is a chronic condition, it is possible to control the symptoms and reduce the flare-ups of the disease. The aim of treating psoriasis is to improve the quality of life of patients by reducing inflammation and flaking of the skin. The methods used in the treatment process may vary depending on the severity of the disease and the individual needs of the patient.
Topical treatments are commonly used for mild and moderate forms of psoriasis. These treatments include corticosteroid creams, vitamin D analogs, retinoids and products containing salicylic acid. In more severe cases, light therapy (phototherapy) and systemic treatments may come into play. Systemic treatments include drugs that target the immune system and are administered orally or by injection.
How is Psoriasis Treated?
Psoriasis is a chronic skin disease, and the treatment process may vary depending on the severity of the disease and the individual needs of the patient. The main goal in the treatment of psoriasis is to control the symptoms of the disease by reducing inflammation and flaking on the skin. Various treatment methods are used for this purpose.
Topical treatments are the first choice for mild and moderate forms of psoriasis. These treatments include corticosteroid creams, vitamin D analogs, retinoids, and products containing salicylic acid. Topical treatments are applied directly to the skin to relieve the symptoms of the disease and reduce flaking on the skin.
In more severe cases, light therapy (phototherapy) and systemic treatments may come into play. Light therapy slows down cell proliferation in the skin using ultraviolet (UV) rays and reduces inflammation. Systemic treatments, on the other hand, include medications taken orally or administered by injection and target the immune system. These treatments aim to control the effects of the disease throughout the body.
What are the Risk Factors for Psoriasis?
Psoriasis is a chronic skin disease that occurs as a result of a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Various risk factors play a role in the development of this disease. Genetic predisposition is one of the most important risk factors for psoriasis. Individuals with a family history of psoriasis have a higher risk of developing the disease. Genetic factors contribute to the development of the disease by causing the immune system to respond abnormally.
Immune system disorders also play an important role in the development of psoriasis. Especially in people with an overactive immune system, skin cells multiply faster than normal, which triggers the symptoms of psoriasis. Environmental factors can also be effective in exacerbating psoriasis. Stress, infections, skin injuries, cold weather and some medications can trigger psoriasis or worsen existing symptoms.
In addition, lifestyle factors such as obesity, smoking and alcohol consumption can also increase the risk of psoriasis. These factors can increase the severity of the disease due to their negative effects on the immune system and make the treatment process more difficult.
How Should Those With Psoriasis Eat?
Proper nutrition is of great importance for individuals with psoriasis in terms of alleviating the symptoms of the disease and improving overall health. Since psoriasis is a disease characterized by inflammation, consuming foods that reduce inflammation may be beneficial. Anti-inflammatory foods include fish rich in omega-3 fatty acids (salmon, sardines, mackerel), flaxseed, walnuts and chia seeds. These foods can help reduce inflammation in the body.
Fresh fruits and vegetables are rich in antioxidants and vitamins, and support the immune system and improve skin health. Dark green leafy vegetables, broccoli, carrots and red peppers are especially recommended foods for psoriasis patients. In addition, whole grains and foods rich in fiber support the digestive system and improve overall health.
It is important for individuals with psoriasis to avoid processed foods, refined sugars and trans fats. Such foods can increase inflammation and worsen the symptoms of the disease. Additionally, limiting or avoiding alcohol consumption is also important in managing psoriasis, as alcohol can increase inflammation in the body.
