Mangalore, Oct 20: The skin department of Father Muller Medical College Hospital has arranged a skin camp to mark World Psoriasis Day between 9.00 am to 12.30pm at Skin OPD of the hospital on October 29.
The facilities offered during the camp include free registration, free medicines and phototherapy treatment at concessional rates for psoriasis patients. The concerned people are requested to attend the programme and avail the benefits.
About Psoriasis
Psoriasis is a common skin disease with frequent relapses. In this disease there is reddish lesions covered with white scales. It is a socially embarrassing disease and results in depression.
The exact cause of psoriasis is still unknown. Genetic factors are thought to be involved as about one third of patients have relatives with the condition. Diet is not thought to play any role in psoriasis. Excess
alcohol and smoking may exacerbate it. Psoriasis affects about 2% of the population. It can affect any age but most commonly its onset is between 15-30 years of age.
Skins over the elbows, knees, scalp, extensors, back are usually affected. Whole body may also be involved. Psoriasis in the nail usually shows up as pits or tiny depressions. The nail may come away from nail bed. The nails involved may become thickened and yellowish in colour.
Psoriasis has a major negative impact on patient’ s quality of life. Psoriasis can be mistaken to be contagious and mistaken by others for a different disease or condition. There is no single treatment available that will cure psoriasis. However it is possible to control it and even to clear it. It may take
several weeks for the condition to improve.
Medical treatment: ointments, tablets
Local treatment: Coal tar, Anthraline, Steroids, Vitamin D
analogues
Systemic treatment: Methotrexate, Cyclosporin A,
Biologicals, Retinoids.
Dos and Don'ts
• Do keep your skin moist as this will help reduce itching and scaling
• Do remember that the sun may help your psoriasis
• Do not drink excess amount of alcohol as this can make your psoriasis worse
• Do not scratch your skin lesions as this may damage the skin and worsen your psoriasis
• Do not give up on your therapy too soon. It may take a few weeks for some treatment to work
• Do protect your skin against scratches and cuts as this may cause your psoriasis to flare up at the site of injury