Are you grappling with the discomfort of psoriasis? Itchy, inflamed and patchy skin can affect your well-being and confidence. At Gilbride Pharmacy, we are committed to addressing your health needs comprehensively. Our extensive inventory includes prescription and non-prescription creams, gels, ointments and foams specially designed to manage psoriasis and alleviate dry skin conditions.
What is Psoriasis?
Psoriasis is a skin ailment characterised by dry, itchy and red skin, often accompanied by scaly, flaky patches. While these patches typically manifest on the scalp, elbows, knees and lower back, they can appear anywhere on your skin, even affecting your nails and joints. In the UK, approximately 2% of the population grapples with psoriasis, and it's a lifelong condition with intermittent flare-ups. Psoriasis is an immune-mediated condition triggered by your body's inflammatory response, leading to the overproduction of skin cells. It's important to note that psoriasis is not contagious.
Triggers
Flare-ups of psoriasis can vary in severity and duration, impacting individuals differently. They often have specific triggers, which may be different for each person. Common triggers include:
- Stress: Psoriasis can follow periods of significant stress.
- Alcohol: Dehydrating effects can exacerbate psoriasis.
- Injury: Scratches, cuts, piercings or injections can trigger flare-ups.
- Infections: Any illness, particularly throat infections, can contribute.
- Medication: Certain drugs like lithium, antimalarials, ibuprofen and blood pressure medications can be triggers.
- Hormones: Puberty, pregnancy and menopause can influence psoriasis.
Plaque Psoriasis
Psoriasis presents in various forms, with the most common being plaque psoriasis. This affects approximately 9 out of 10 psoriasis sufferers and can occur on its own or alongside other types. Plaque psoriasis results in itchy, red, sore skin with white or silver scales. It leads to thick and dry skin due to the overproduction of skin cells and increased blood flow, making affected areas appear redder.
Diagnosis
Your GP can diagnose all types of psoriasis through a skin examination and a thorough assessment of your symptoms and medical history. In some cases, a small skin sample, or biopsy, may be required for precise diagnosis. If necessary, your GP may refer you to a dermatologist for specialised care.
Management
While there's no cure for psoriasis, effective management can control flare-ups, reducing their frequency and severity. Treatment methods vary depending on the type, affected body areas and severity of psoriasis. Common treatments include:
- Topical Creams, Ointments and Gels: These are applied directly to affected skin areas and include emollients, vitamin D preparations, topical steroids and coal tar products.
- Emollients and Moisturisers: These hydrate and protect dry skin, helping to prevent itching and irritation. Apply them after bathing for optimal results.
- Vitamin D Preparations: These can reduce inflammation and redness when used correctly in conjunction with emollients.
- Topical Steroids: These reduce inflammation and thickening of the skin. Their potency varies depending on the severity of your psoriasis.
- Coal Tar Preparations: Coal tar products have anti-inflammatory and anti-scaling properties, helping to soothe psoriasis symptoms.
- Specialist Treatments: For severe cases, dermatologists may recommend ultraviolet light therapy, systemic treatments or biologic medications.
Prevention
While psoriasis cannot be entirely prevented, you can minimise flare-ups by identifying and avoiding triggers that affect you. Common triggers include:
- Stress
- Hormonal changes
- Medication
- Alcohol
- Smoking
- Throat infections
- Skin injuries
Additionally, maintaining good skincare habits, such as keeping your skin well-hydrated, trimming your nails and using a humidifier in dry weather, can help reduce recurrences and the severity of flare-ups.
Visit Us
Select your preferred Gilbride Pharmacy branch to visit their page and inquire about this service or simply walk in when it suits your schedule. We are committed to protecting your health and well-being.