All about psoriasis - how to treat, causes and symptoms, types

Treatment program Doctors Prices Reviews For more than two thousand years, humanity has been trying to unravel all the mysteries of this severe dermatosis, but still much remains unknown. According to statistics, this disease affects 4 to 7% of the population; women and men are equally susceptible to it. The first signs of psoriasis usually appear during puberty and accompany a person throughout the rest of his life, sometimes subsiding and disappearing completely, sometimes intensifying.

Is it possible to cure psoriasis?

? Modern medicine has achieved a lot in the treatment of this chronic dermatosis and is able to provide the patient with a decent level of quality of life.

• How dangerous is psoriasis and does it need to be treated?
• Treatment methods for psoriasis Nutrition for psoriasis Pegano diet

Causes of psoriasis

Psoriasis is a chronic skin inflammatory process, which modern medicine classifies as autoimmune (associated with allergies to one’s own tissues). There are many causes of psoriasis and factors predisposing to the development of this dermatosis, and therefore a number of theories of its origin have been put forward.

Autoimmune

This is the main theory, since it is well established that the immune system actively reacts to certain types of skin exposure.
The skin of people suffering from psoriasis is very sensitive to mechanical, physical, and chemical influences. Not only epithelial cells, but also the entire immune system react to such influences. Cellular immunity is disrupted: the relationship between individual subtypes of lymphocytes responsible for the formation of a normal immune response. Thus, with psoriasis, the number of helper T-lymphocytes - assistants that regulate immunity - increases, while at the same time the number of suppressor T-lymphocytes, which suppress an overly strong immune reaction, decreases. Lymphocytes and some other cells produce cytokines - active substances that stimulate the immune response. Humoral immunity also suffers, an imbalance of antibodies (immunoglobulins) develops in the blood serum, and antibodies to the patient’s body tissues appear.

Inflammation begins against the background of activation of T-lymphocytes, but why they are activated has not been established. Research is also underway on how to suppress the autoimmune reaction without harming the patient.

Exchange

Imbalance in metabolism has a significant impact on the skin and immunity. Patients with psoriasis experience an acceleration of metabolism, the appearance of a large number of toxic free radicals and other toxins that support the inflammatory response. Metabolism is disrupted:

• protein
  – the CDSN predisposition gene stimulates the synthesis of the protein corneodesmosin, which sensitizes (allergenic) the body; The content of albumin proteins in the blood decreases and the content of globulins increases; this condition is called dysproteinemia and further enhances sensitization;
• fatty
  – the content of lipids and cholesterol in the blood increases; eating predominantly plant foods and a general reduction in daily caloric intake can reduce the activity of psoriatic inflammation;
• carbohydrate
  – almost always violated;
• exchange of vitamins and minerals
  – the content of vitamin C in the skin increases, the content of vitamins C, A, B6, B12, iron, copper and zinc in the blood decreases.

Infectious

This theory was relevant at the beginning and in the middle of the last century. The causative agents of psoriasis were considered to be certain bacteria (streptococci), fungi and viruses. These theories were not confirmed. But dermatologists note that any acute infectious process or the presence of a permanent source of infection can provoke relapses. The viral theory occupies a special place. Recent studies have revealed the influence of retroviruses (RNA-containing viruses - HIV, etc.) on the genetic apparatus with the formation of genes for psoriatic predisposition.

Genetic

Predisposition to autoimmune reactions is inherited. If someone close to you suffers from psoriasis, then the likelihood of developing this disease increases many times over. There are predisposition genes for psoriasis (local complexes PSORS1 - PSORS9, PSORS1 is especially active, it contains the genes HLA-C, HLA-Cw6, CCHCR1 and CDSN, which are responsible for the development of the disease). Genes influence metabolism, immunity and the development of autoimmune processes. But the presence of such genes does not at all guarantee the development of the disease. The influence of provoking factors is of great importance.

Neurogenic

Prolonged stress, high neuropsychic stress, disorders of the autonomic nervous system (innervating the walls of blood vessels and internal organs) can cause the development of psoriasis, causing an imbalance in the endocrine system, disruption of metabolic and immunological processes.

Endocrine

Endocrine disorders in psoriasis are common and mainly play the role of a provoking factor. A clear connection between them has not been proven. Dermatologists note that patients often exhibit dysfunction of the thyroid gland, adrenal glands, and pituitary gland. There are disturbances of the menstrual cycle in women and sexual function in men.

Use of vitamin complexes

Vitamins have an extremely beneficial effect not only on the course of the disease, but also on its prevention. Thanks to a strong immune system, it is possible to prevent relapse; at the same time, metabolism improves, which has a beneficial effect on the condition of the skin. Important vitamins are: 1. A – it is responsible for keratinization, which significantly accelerates skin regeneration; 2. E – mainly valued for its antioxidant effects. It also prevents deviations in metabolism and acts as an integral part of DNA synthesis; 3. D – is a regulating substance for the exchange of phosphorus and calcium. At the same time, it stimulates regeneration in the epidermis and normalizes the membrane and cellular structure; 4. Group B – actively participate in skin metabolism, improve the process of oxygen absorption. The skin elements respond favorably to the presence of B vitamins, which is reflected by the normalization of the nervous system. Most often, foods high in vitamins or medications are used. Recommended are Undevit, Hexavit, and Decamevit, but they should be used based on the doctor’s recommendations.

Symptoms of psoriasis

The main symptoms of psoriasis are skin rashes. But there are other signs as well. The very first manifestations usually appear in adolescence or childhood against the background of hormonal disorders, vegetative-vascular dystonia and prolonged stress.

The disease begins with a feeling of constant fatigue and mood disturbances. Characteristic are small, pinkish formations (papules) rising above the surface, powdered with whitish peeling on top. They are surrounded by a brighter, raised rim.

Elements of the rash grow and unite into large plaques of bizarre shapes. The base of the papule is an inflammatory infiltrate. Based on the nature of the rash, psoriasis is divided into:

• point
  – elements no more than 1 mm in diameter;
• teardrop-shaped
  – papules-droplets up to 2 mm in size;
• coin-shaped
  – round papules-coins up to 5 mm in size.

Ulcerative rash

Guttate rash

Coin rash

Characteristic features of the rash:

• stearic stain
  - if scraped, the surface of the papule;
• terminal film
  - having thoroughly cleaned the surface of the papule from scales, we will see a transparent film;
• bloody dew (Auspitz phenomenon)
  - after scraping the film and violating its integrity, we will see small bloody droplets protruding on the surface.

How to use correctly

There are several tips for using herbs:

1. Be sure to read the information about all ingredients, paying attention to contraindications.
2. There may be allergic reactions, but you can easily check how the dermis reacts to the healing mixture. Simply apply a few drops of the prepared solution to the skin of your elbow or wrist for 7-10 minutes. If no changes occur, feel free to apply the resulting suspension externally.
3. Preparing decoctions takes time. The herbs can either be poured with boiling water or simmered over a fire for several minutes.
4. The healing potion must be infused: the more, the better.
5. Be sure to filter the broth using a sieve or gauze.
6. You can use the product internally before or after meals - see how indicated in the recipe.
7. If you use oils for external use, combining them with herbs, be sure to heat the extract to a temperature of 45 degrees.
8. Are you making a mask or lotion? Leave the product on the dermis for up to 15 minutes. You can wrap a towel on top for better activation of the components.

Stages of psoriasis

There are three stages of the disease:

1. progressive
   - the first elements of the rash appear, their number increases, and more and more new areas are captured; rashes also appear when scratching itchy skin or exposing it to some external irritating factors (Koebner phenomenon); in the initial stage of psoriasis, papules begin to merge into large plaques;
2. stationary
   - there are no new elements, and those that appeared earlier do not regress;
3. regressing
   - the rash turns pale and its base becomes less dense; the rash gradually regresses, the process often begins from the central part, so the plaques may have the appearance of rings; if plaques in psoriasis resolve from the periphery to the center, then they simply gradually decrease in size and a white ring forms around them - Voronov’s pseudoatrophic rim; where the rash was, white areas devoid of pigment remain - psoriatic leukoderma.

Occasionally, papules at all three stages of development are present on the skin at the same time. There are also summer and winter forms with a predominance of exacerbations in summer or winter.

Healthy foods

For psoriasis, any fermented milk products are useful, but only low fat. Nutritionists recommend that patients more often consume soft cheeses without spices, Varenets, fermented baked milk, yogurt, and kefir. Children's diets should include cottage cheese and drinking yogurt without dyes or flavors. The following products should also be included in the weekly menu:

• boiled eggs or omelettes;
• lean meats - turkey, rabbit, chicken breast, lamb;
• fatty fish - salmon, Norwegian herring, sardines;
• dried whole grain bread;
• cereal porridges - buckwheat, millet, wheat, corn;
• salads from white cabbage, beets, parsley, seasoned with any vegetable oil;
• zucchini, greens and celery root vegetables, carrots.

Products must not be deep-fried or fried. They should be simmered in a small amount of water or baked. Steamed vegetables, meat or fish retain the maximum possible amount of nutrients, macro- and microelements, fat- and water-soluble vitamins.

Nutritionists recommend eating fruits and dried fruits as desserts. The daily consumption of figs, dried apricots, pineapple, grapes, cherries, peaches, and dates is especially beneficial. Of the citrus fruits, only grapefruit is allowed. The thick peel of the fruit must be cut off. Don't forget about nuts (walnuts, cashews, pistachios, hazelnuts), pumpkin and sunflower seeds. They perfectly alkalize the body, minimizing the risk of relapse of psoriasis.

Is psoriasis contagious?

Numerous studies have confirmed that this is not a contagious disease. If infectious pathogens take part in its development, then only through a general effect on metabolism, immunity and the genetic apparatus.

Patients often ask:

• How is psoriasis transmitted?
  Psoriasis is not transmitted from person to person.
• Is psoriasis inherited?
  The answer is again negative, but there is a hereditary predisposition in the form of metabolic characteristics and the functioning of the immune system, which is passed on to close relatives.

Vitamin teas for patients with psoriasis

For psoriasis, take vitamin teas, they replenish the lack of substances and help fight the disease.

Rose hips and flowers

1. Vitamin tea No. 1. Pour 2 cups of boiling water over rose hips and black currants (1 tsp each) and leave for an hour. Drink half a glass 3-4 times a day.
2. Vitamin tea No. 2. Pour 2 cups of boiling water over rose hips and rowan berries (1 tsp each) and leave for an hour. Drink half a glass 3-4 times a day.

Types of psoriasis

The nature of the rashes, their location, damage to other organs and systems in this chronic dermatosis can be different. Based on these symptoms, several types of the disease are distinguished.

Simple (vulgar, plaque)

The most common. Its symptoms are papules of a characteristic bright pink color, covered with white scales. Plaque psoriasis is divided into the following forms:

• mild
  – if the lesion covers no more than 3% of the skin; in the progressive phase, the papules increase, but then quickly undergo reverse development;
• moderate severity
  - the rash occupies from 3 to 10%; papules are large, merge into plaques;
• severe
  – the lesion affects more than 10%; The rashes are numerous, merging, forming a wide variety of shapes.

Mild form of psoriasis

Moderate psoriasis

Severe form of psoriasis

Vulgar psoriasis occurs in the form of relapses followed by remissions, but there is also a continuous course.

Elbow psoriasis

This is one of the manifestations of a mild form of plaque inflammation. A distinctive feature of psoriasis on the elbows is the constant presence of one or more “duty” plaques on the extensor side of the elbow joints. If these elements are injured, an exacerbation begins.

Elbow psoriasis

Guttate psoriasis

In the development of guttate psoriasis, bacterial (most often streptococcal) and viral infections are of great importance. Occurs in childhood. Inflammation begins after an infection. Streptococci secrete toxins (antigens - substances foreign to the human body) that bind to tissue proteins. Antibodies are produced to them and autoimmune inflammation develops.

The beginning is acute. Small red tear papules with a flaky surface appear on the skin of the extremities (less commonly the body and face). When injured, small erosions and ulcers form in the area of ​​the rash, increasing the risk of infection.

Onset of development of guttate psoriasis in childhood

Psoriasis quickly takes a subacute and chronic course. Relapses are replaced by remissions, spontaneous recovery or transition to the adult form of the disease is possible.

Palmoplantar psoriasis

It develops in those who do physical labor, is accompanied by severe itching and almost always causes complications on the nails. There are subspecies:

• plaque-fan-shaped
  - with large elements on the palmar and plantar surfaces, covered with white scales merging into fan-shaped plaques; This type of psoriasis is more common on the hands;
• circular
  - ring-shaped flaky elements on the palmar and plantar surfaces;
• callous
  - characterized by the proliferation of rough epithelium with the formation of calluses;

A separate subtype is pustular psoriasis on the palms and soles of Barber. The areas under the thumbs of the extremities become covered with blisters and pustules (with purulent contents), and severe itching appears. The ulcers merge, then dry out, forming crusts. In other places on the body, characteristic psoriatic elements develop. The disease often spreads to the nails.

Psoriasis on the legs is maintained and aggravated by varicose veins, in which case the rash will be mainly in the area of ​​the legs.

Nail psoriasis

Nail damage can be either independent or a complication. Characteristic symptoms:

• small dimples of varying depths appear on the nail plate; similar nail lesions occur with other dermatitis, but with psoriatic lesions they are deeper and slightly painful when pressed;
• spontaneous slow painless separation of the nail (onycholysis);
• subungual hemorrhages on the toenails, especially if the patient wears tight shoes;
• trachyonychia - clouding and irregularities on the nail plate; a depression forms in the middle of the nail and the nail becomes spoon-like (koilonychia).

Acute form of complication of the disease on the nails

Sometimes the periungual fold is affected, with inflammation spreading to other tissues (psoriatic paronychia).

Psoriasis of the scalp

Here the disease occurs independently or as part of a general pathological process. Characterized by weeping and the formation of crusts on part or the entire surface of the head. Hair growth is not affected: psoriasis on the scalp does not impair the function of the hair roots. But wetting creates a threat of infection with subsequent damage to the hair follicles.

Skin lesions on the scalp with psoriasis

It proceeds in waves, then subsiding with the disappearance of the crusts, then exacerbating again and is accompanied by severe itching, often leading patients to neurosis.

Seborrheic psoriasis

Seborrhea is a condition caused by a malfunction of the skin glands that produce sebum. Viscous sebum is produced, which irritates the skin and contributes to the development of inflammation - dermatitis.

Seborrheic psoriasis quickly spreads to the entire head, covering it in the form of a cap and accompanied by severe itching. In the areas behind the ears, weeping sometimes develops and infection occurs. Covered with dandruff and continuous crusts, the head sometimes looks like a psoriatic crown.

Psoriasis on the face

Typically, psoriasis on the face is localized in the area of ​​the nasolabial triangle, eyelids, above the eyebrows, and in the areas behind the ears. The merged elements of the rash form large areas of redness and swelling. If there is a malfunction of the sebaceous glands, the process is often accompanied by weeping, the formation of crusts, and an increased risk of infection.

The first symptoms of psoriasis on the face

Psoriasis on the genitals

This is not an isolated process. Along with damage to the genital organs, there are characteristic psoriatic rashes throughout the body, so identifying the disease is not difficult.

Psoriasis on the penis in men and the labia majora in women, as well as on the adjacent skin areas, manifests itself in the form of oval, pink, scaly papules slightly raised above the skin. There is practically no itching. Sometimes the process spreads to the mucous membranes and takes the form of vulvovaginitis in women and balanoposthitis in men.

Atypical psoriatic rashes can be observed in obese people in the folds located next to the genitals (inguinal, intergluteal). Here, areas of intense red color with a mirror-like surface are formed without signs of peeling due to constant wetting.

How they work

Herbal medicine in the fight against psoriasis involves several methods of action:

1. Taking various decoctions and tinctures internally.
2. Lubricating the affected skin with a healing potion (this can be compresses, baths, masks for the dermis of the scalp, ointments, etc.).

According to dermatologists, skin problems are a direct indicator that some body system or individual organ is malfunctioning. That is why, if you clearly establish the cause of psoriatic plaques, you can quickly and easily eliminate the disease.

Among the causes of exacerbation of psoriasis are:

• weakened immunity;
• stressful situations;
• hormonal disbalance;
• diet or vitamin deficiency;
• metabolic disease.

It is quite difficult to say which of the above factors led to the accelerated regeneration of the skin. But you just need to remember what happened to you a few days before the formation of peeling. For example, you went on a diet to get the desired shape, or at the end of the year you had to submit reports and constantly listen to criticism from your superiors, which led to frequent frustration and lack of sleep, or perhaps you recently suffered from a viral disease.

If you manage to establish the root cause of the disease, then select herbs according to their vector of influence. People who have experienced disorders are recommended to take sedative herbs internally. Those people whose bodies have recently fought viruses will need to drink restorative infusions.

Can't determine the cause of psoriatic plaques? Then consult a dermatologist. The specialist, having in hand the results of tests and examinations of various organs, will select pharmaceutical preparations and will definitely recommend herbal medicine.

Important point! You should not expect a lightning-fast effect from using herbs against psoriasis. Beneficial substances must accumulate in the body in order to stabilize its protective functions.

How dangerous is psoriasis and does it need to be treated?

Advanced stage

The danger is that psoriasis can take a widespread, severe form, with rashes occupying more than 10% of the skin. This stage of the disease is severe, recurs, the elements of the rash become injured and become wet, and infection often occurs. Only timely treatment for psoriasis can stop the process of its spread.

Sometimes the disease is complicated by inflammation in the joints with the formation of psoriatic polyarthritis, against which the function of the joints can be significantly impaired.

Against the background of a systemic autoimmune process, which has a significant impact on the patient’s condition, other autoimmune diseases often develop (rheumatoid arthritis, some types of arthrosis, Crohn’s disease, etc.), as well as severe cardiovascular pathology, diseases of the digestive system, and neurological reactions.

If treatment for psoriasis is not started on time, the patient’s condition will become more complicated and lead to disability.

There is also a complication such as psoriatic erythroderma, which develops with improper or insufficient treatment of psoriasis, as well as with exposure to various irritating factors on the inflamed skin. The skin acquires a bright pink color with a clear demarcation of the affected areas from healthy ones, small and large lamellar peeling. This patient requires emergency medical care.

Is there a cure for psoriasis?

Yes, and quite successfully, but complete recovery cannot be guaranteed.

Find out how to get rid of psoriasis in a course of therapy of 10 sessions

The use of healing massage

Prevention of psoriasis becomes even more effective if you use massage. Massage techniques that stimulate blood circulation are considered especially useful. Thanks to active blood circulation, the removal of metabolites and toxins is accelerated, and the process of skin regeneration is accelerated, which prevents exacerbation of the disease. The massage involves using your fingers to gradually stretch the areas of skin located around the plaques. You need to cover an area of ​​2-4 cm around the affected area. You shouldn’t touch the plaques themselves, as this can worsen the disease. To prevent the appearance of new plaques, you can massage the whole body. Mostly you need to treat the back, then move on to massaging the limbs and finally the abdomen. The chest responds well to squeezing and rubbing. The duration of the procedure is 10-15 minutes.

Treatment methods

Autoimmune inflammation requires individually selected complex therapy, lifestyle changes, nutrition, and elimination of all bad habits. Modern medicine has proposed three basic principles for the successful treatment of psoriasis:

• strict adherence to the prescribed therapy algorithms;
• regular monitoring of the effectiveness of therapy;
• timely correction of prescribed therapy if it is insufficiently effective.

Nutrition for psoriasis

There is no special diet for psoriasis, but nutrition is of great importance. Therefore, when prescribing complex treatment, nutritional recommendations must be given:

• identify increased sensitivity of the body to certain products and exclude them from the diet;
• give preference to fresh vegetables, non-acidic fruits and berries, boiled and baked lean meat, drink more;
• what not to eat if you have psoriasis
  :
  products containing essential oils - onions, garlic, radishes;
• drinks containing caffeine (concentrated tea, coffee), alcohol;
• everything is saltier, sour and sweet, rich;
• products that promote sensitization (allergization) of the body - orange fruits, honey, nuts, cocoa, eggs;
• do not consume fatty animal products.

Recommended foods for psoriasis

Pegano diet for psoriasis

This diet was developed by the American physician John Pegano, but has not found official recognition in medicine. The principle of constructing the Pegano diet for psoriasis is associated with alkalization of the body by selecting the right diet. According to this principle, all products are divided into:

• alkali-forming (two-thirds of the daily diet) - non-acidic fruit and berry mixtures and juices, vegetables (exclude those that cause increased gas formation);
• acid-forming (one-third of the diet) - meat, fish, dairy products, beans, peas, potatoes, cereals, sweets and baked goods.

Patients are recommended to drink still mineral water, drinking water up to 1.5 liters per day, plus other liquids to drink (compotes, juices, etc.)

Drug therapy

Treatment of mild forms of psoriasis is carried out using external medications. Severe and rapidly progressing forms of the disease are treated primarily in a hospital setting with the prescription of general (systemic) drugs.

External treatment of psoriasis

The medicine is selected by a dermatologist. For vulgar psoriasis with dry constricting plaques, ointments are suitable; if weeping develops (with seborrheic psoriasis), then creams and medicinal solutions are used. In order to avoid resistance (resistance) of the body to a certain drug, it is changed over time.

In the acute (progressive) stage, the following external therapy is performed:

• agents that have a softening effect - boric petroleum jelly, 2% salicylic ointment;
• non-hormonal ointments for psoriasis containing activated zinc pyrithione (Skin-cap, Zinocap) are effective; they suppress infection and have a cytostatic (suppress tissue proliferation) effect;
• external agents containing glucocorticosteroid (GCS) hormones;
• Daivobet ointment is a combination product with calcipotriol (an analogue of vitamin D3) and GCS betamethasone; perfectly suppresses the inflammatory process;

External treatment of psoriasis in the stationary stage:

• ointments that dissolve scales (keratolytic) and have an anti-inflammatory effect - 5% naphthalan, boron-naphthalan, tar-naphthalan;
• corticosteroid drugs.

External treatment of psoriasis in the resolving stage:

• the same keratolytic ointments, but in a higher concentration: 10% tar-naphthalan ointments;
• ointments based on vitamin D3 analogues (Calcipotriol, Psorkutan) - for 6 - 8 weeks; suppresses the inflammatory process and peeling of the rash.

To treat nail psoriasis, special varnishes (Belvedere) are used, which suppress the development of the pathological process. It is recommended to treat the periungual phalanges with moisturizing gels.

Systemic treatment of psoriasis

• agents that relieve inflammation and intoxication - calcium chloride, sodium thiosulfate, unithiol in the form of injections;
• tablets for psoriasis, suppressing the processes of proliferation (reproduction of epithelial cells) - cytostatics (Methotrexate), suppressing the activity of the immune system (Cyclosporin A), vitamin A analogues (Acitretin), corticosteroid hormones;
• biological agents (ustekinumab - Stelara), containing human monoclonal antibodies of the IgG class, affecting certain parts of inflammation by suppressing the synthesis of cytokines; this is a very effective modern drug that is administered by injection;
• vitamins for psoriasis help restore metabolism and keratinization of epithelial cells; Doctors prescribe vitamins A, E (Aevit), D3, group B.

Folk remedies for psoriasis

Any treatment for psoriasis, including using folk remedies, can only be prescribed by a doctor. Self-treatment can lead to the opposite effect: the spread of the disease.

The following methods can be used as part of complex therapy:

• grease
  – a product of processing of technical oils; to prepare the ointment, you need to buy medical solidol at the pharmacy; recipe: in 0.5 kg of solid oil, add 50 g of honey and half a package of baby cream; procedures are carried out daily; At the pharmacy you can purchase ready-made preparations based on solid oil Magnipsor, Ungvetol, etc.
• baking soda
  is a folk remedy for psoriasis, helps cleanse crusts, relieves itching; recipe for soda applications: take 60 g of soda, dissolve in 0.5 liters of water, soak a gauze cloth in the solution, fold it in several layers and apply to the lesion for 20 minutes; After the procedure, blot the skin and apply any softening ointment to it; treatment of psoriasis with soda is carried out once a day;
• Shilajit
  – has a pronounced anti-inflammatory effect, relieves itching well; can be taken orally once a day, 0.2 g for two weeks; external therapy is carried out with mumiyo solution; it is applied to dry itchy plaques twice a day; Treatment of psoriasis on the head is carried out by rinsing the scalp with a mummy solution after washing;
• sea ​​salt
  – relieves inflammation and itching well; baths with sea salt: take 1 kg of salt, dilute in two liters of water and add to the bath; take a bath for 15 minutes, then rinse off the solution under a warm shower, pat the body dry with a towel and apply a softening ointment; treat psoriasis with baths no more than twice a week;
• clay
  – has a pronounced cleansing effect, adsorbing on its surface toxins formed as a result of inflammation and improper metabolism; promotes drying, eliminating crusts and itching; You can take any clay, but it is better to buy blue clay at the pharmacy; pieces of clay need to be thoroughly dried, broken with a hammer, diluted with water and allowed to stand for several hours; Place the resulting plate-shaped clay on a napkin (up to 3 cm thick) and apply to the areas of inflammation for three hours; Treat psoriasis with clay every other day.

Important: treatment of psoriasis at home with folk remedies should be carried out with caution and strictly as prescribed by the doctor. For one patient, such treatment will help, but for another it may cause an exacerbation and rapid spread of inflammation. Therefore, if the patient’s condition worsens during therapy, you should immediately stop it and consult a doctor.

Home treatment for psoriasis

When treating psoriasis at home, it is important to follow nutritional recommendations, lead a healthy lifestyle, eliminate bad habits and strictly follow all the dermatologist’s instructions.

How to cure psoriasis at home? Some patients try to cleanse themselves of toxins and waste using all sorts of unconventional methods (enemas, etc.). This can give the exact opposite result: the functioning of the digestive tract will be disrupted and an exacerbation will begin. Modern medicine recognizes cleansing the body in the form of proper nutrition and getting rid of bad habits.

It is important to follow all doctor’s orders and pay attention to how the prescribed therapy works. If it is not effective enough, the doctor will replace the treatment, achieving maximum therapeutic effect.

Phototherapy

Phototherapy for psoriasis

Treatment of psoriasis with light has been used for a long time and successfully. For this purpose, two types of ultraviolet (UV) radiation are used:

• mid-wave UV radiation B
  – irradiation is carried out using the method of selective phototherapy, in which the affected areas of the skin are irradiated; 20 procedures at intervals every other day are sufficient for a course of treatment;
• long-wave UV A radiation
  is photochemotherapy or PUVA therapy; the patient’s body is first exposed to a photosensitizer (it can be taken orally or used externally, in the form of a solution), which increases the skin’s sensitivity to UV rays; After 90 minutes, the skin is irradiated with long-wave UV rays.

Surgical method

Photo: Martynov V.L.

The surgical method for treating psoriasis was developed by Dr. Martynov. It consists of strengthening the bauhinium valve - the pylorus, located on the border of the small and large intestines.

Normally, the pylorus allows food to pass in only one direction: from the small intestine to the large intestine. But sometimes the valve does not work and the contents of the large intestine are thrown into the small intestine. And since many microorganisms, food breakdown products, toxic gases, etc. accumulate in the large intestine, the body suffers from intoxication. Toxic substances provoke the development of skin disorders.

After surgical treatment of psoriasis, many patients experience stable remission. However, it should be understood that, as with any abdominal surgery, there is a risk of developing severe complications: infection, bleeding, complications from general anesthesia, etc.

Therefore, before deciding on surgical intervention, it is worth discussing with a dermatologist how this treatment method is right for you.

Recipes with an adaptogenic effect on the body

Adaptogenic - an action that increases the body's resistance to a harmful external environment.

1. Eleutherococcus senticosus extract. Take 20-30 drops 3 times a day, half an hour before meals. The course is a month.
2. Tincture of high aralia. Take 30-40 drops 3 times a day, half an hour before meals.
   The course is a month. Aralia high
3. Tincture of Schisandra chinensis fruits. Take 20-30 drops 2-3 times a day, before meals.
4. Tincture of high quality lure. Take 30-40 drops 2-3 times a day, before meals.
5. Rhodiola rosea root extract. Take 10-30 drops 2-3 times a day, half an hour before meals.
6. Greater celandine decoction. In a ratio of 1:20, take 1 tbsp. 3 times a day.
7. Tincture of sea buckthorn. Take 30 drops 3 times a day.
8. Tincture of common barley seeds (50%). Take 30 drops 3 times a day.
9. Infusion of chaga (birch mushroom). Pour the dried mushroom with cold boiled water for 4 hours, then grind it in a mortar. Fill with the same water in a ratio of 1:5, leave for 2 days. Drain the liquid and squeeze out the sediment. Take a glass a day, half an hour before meals.
10. The drug "Befungin". The drug also contains birch mushroom extract (chaga).
    Dilute 2 tsp. drug in 150 ml. boiled water, take 1 tbsp. l. 3 times a day, half an hour before meals. The course is 3-5 months, with a break of 7-10 days. Befungin

Will hormones help with psoriasis?

Corticosteroid hormones are widely used in the treatment of psoriasis. They perfectly eliminate swelling, itching, and suppress tissue proliferation. But hormones quickly become addictive and have serious side effects.

. Therefore, dermatologists use them with great caution, in courses and in combination with other medications that enhance their effect.

One of the most effective combinations is the combination of the synthetic analogue of vitamin D3 calcipotriol and the corticosteroid betamethasone in the drug Daivobet. The two active ingredients mutually enhance each other's effects and reduce side effects by reducing dosages. The body's resistance to this drug practically does not develop when it is prescribed in short, repeated courses throughout the year. This technique combines well with systemic therapy.

Daivobet - a hormonal drug for psoriasis

The question often arises about how to treat psoriasis on the scalp. Daivobet ointment is perfect for these purposes. It is able to maintain long-term remission and prevent the onset of relapses. Daivobet is assessed by patients as a stabilizing drug that maintains remission and prevents the onset of exacerbations.

Medicinal products to improve body tone

In complex treatment, it is important to reduce body fatigue and increase overall tone. Folk remedies for psoriasis help to do this

1. Infusion of St. John's wort. The proportion is 1:20. Take a third of a glass 3 times a day, half an hour before meals.
2. Infusion (decoction) of white willow. Take 1 tbsp. l. bark, pour 2 cups boiling water. Take 2 tbsp. l. 3-5 times a day.
3. Verbena infusion. Take 1 tbsp.
   l. herbs, pour a glass of boiling water. Take 1 time per day. Verbena officinalis

Eastern medicine methods for psoriasis

Eastern medicine views autoimmune inflammation as a disorder of neuroendocrine balance and immunity. Doctors at our clinic influence certain points on the patient’s body (acupuncture points - AT) to restore the disturbed balance.

Over many years of practice, we have developed unique methods for treating psoriasis, combining proven techniques of the East and innovative methods of Western medicine:

Su-Jok therapy

We work with certain areas of the skin (foot or palm), helping the body overcome the disease that has engulfed it. The method relieves pain and tension, improves general condition.

Phytotherapy

Using individually selected medicinal herbs and preparations from them, the herbalist helps restore the body weakened by disease.

Tszyu therapy

Burning with heated wormwood cigars is a painless method that eliminates pain and improves metabolism and blood circulation.

Plasmolifting

The essence of plasmolifting is that platelet-rich plasma is injected into problem areas. Platelets acquire regenerative ability when their content in plasma becomes several times higher than normal.

Acupuncture

The acupuncturist inserts sterile needles to a shallow depth, individually selecting points associated with the internal systems of the patient’s body.

Moxibustion therapy

We warm up the locations of biologically active points using moxas, which are harmless to humans - aromatic cigars.

Pharmacopuncture

The method allows you to get by with minimal doses of drugs, introducing them into areas known to the specialist. The drug immediately begins to influence the area affected by the disease.

PRP therapy

PRP therapy is the newest way to stimulate recovery processes. It is used to restore the functions of various organs after diseases and injuries, including the treatment of wounds and restoration of the function of the musculoskeletal system.

All treatment methods

Points for the treatment of psoriasis are selected for each patient individually after the doctor has carried out a special diagnosis using Eastern methods.

If a specialist really understands Eastern methods of diagnosis and treatment, then the therapeutic effect will eliminate relapses for years. There are no side effects!

These techniques are widely used in our clinic by specialists who have all the necessary training in reflexology. After a course of treatment for psoriasis, exacerbations, as a rule, do not occur for a long time, and regular preventive courses of reflexology eliminate relapses for many years and significantly improve the quality of life.

Methods with a sedative effect on the body

Sedative effect - calming, relieving stress (without hypnotic effect).

1. Oregano infusion. Take 2 tsp.
   herbs, pour boiling water over it, let it brew. Take warm 3-4 times a day, half a glass, before meals. Oregano
2. Tincture of motherwort herb (proportion 1.5:20). Take 30-50 drops 3-4 times a day.
3. Infusion of valerian officinalis (rhizome with roots). Take 6-20 g of the plant, pour a glass of boiling water.
   Take 1 tbsp. l. 3-4 times a day. Valerian officinalis
4. Decoction of common chicory. Pour a glass of boiling water over a teaspoon of crushed root. Take a quarter glass 4 times a day.
5. Tincture of evasive peony. Take 30-40 drops to a teaspoon 3 times a day, before meals. Course - 30 days.
6. Blue cyanosis infusion. Proportion - 0.6-0.8:20. Take 1 tbsp. l. 3-5 times a day.
7. Infusion of fireweed angustifolia. Take 2 tbsp. l. herbs, pour 2 cups of boiling water and leave for 6 hours. Take this dose 1 time per day.
8. Spring primrose decoction. The proportion of roots is 2:40. Take half a glass 3-4 times a day. The proportion of leaves is 1.5:20. Take half a glass 3 times a day.

Sanatorium treatment of psoriasis at sea

Sea bathing, sunbathing and mud have a positive effect on patients with psoriasis. With this effect, the skin is cleansed, it becomes smooth and healthy. Staying a patient with psoriasis in a sanatorium for a month can prevent relapses of the disease for six months.

Important: Treatment at sea is contraindicated in the acute stage of psoriasis

There are sanatoriums for psoriasis patients on the Black and Azov Seas. Spa treatment at the Dead Sea is considered more effective. The method is suitable for patients in stationary and regressing stages. An acute inflammatory process (progressive stage) is a contraindication for such treatment, as progression may intensify. There are also patients for whom seaside resorts are contraindicated, as they contribute to the development of exacerbations.

Climatotherapy, ultraviolet rays

Ultraviolet irradiation has a beneficial effect on the course of psoriasis and its prevention. Patients are prescribed sunbathing for 5-10 minutes; combustion is unacceptable. Sea water also has a positive effect, especially from the Dead Sea, although this indicator is individual, but on the contrary, it is harmful for some. Skin wounds are a contraindication to swimming in sea water. During an exacerbation, you should not swim. The time for climatotherapy should be adjusted individually. When sunbathing, you need to use protective creams. Your doctor will be able to tell you whether sunbathing will have a beneficial effect, otherwise there is a high risk of exacerbation of the disease.

Prevention of psoriasis

Prevention of exacerbations is:

• active lifestyle;
• dietary nutrition;
• getting rid of bad habits;
• proper skin care with the selection of individual hygiene products;
• prevention of skin injury;
• the habit of promptly treating all foci of infection;
• limiting contact with any skin irritants;
• combating prolonged stress and high emotional stress;
• taking any medications must be agreed with your doctor;
• wearing loose clothing made from natural fabrics;
• if possible, annual sanatorium-resort treatment of psoriasis at sea.

General rules

Care for psoriasis requires maximum attention to the skin. It is necessary to avoid contact with aggressive detergents, not only household chemicals, but also soap and shampoo.

Special attention is paid to bed linen and clothing. Prefer work that does not involve wearing a rough uniform with additional fixing elements or interacting with chemicals. When cleaning at home, you must additionally protect your skin and wear gloves.

Psoriasis is a systemic disease that cannot be cured, but its course can be significantly alleviated.
The Psormak clinic in Moscow offers effective and safe methods for relieving exacerbations and transitioning into stable remission. You can contact us and order a consultation using the online form on the website or by phone. January 16, 2021
Author of the article: dermatologist Mak Vladimir Fedorovich

Will they be drafted into the army with psoriasis?

Do they take you into the army with psoriasis? This question interests many conscripts. Widespread, progressive and severe forms of this autoimmune disease are grounds for exemption from service, regardless of whether psoriasis is contagious or not to others. They can join the army if psoriasis first started and it was stopped. But more often, such conscripts are given a “Partially fit” conclusion and sent to the reserves. A Partially Unfit determination means that a person can only be called up for service if hostilities break out.

Antistress

Psycho-emotional disorders and tension negatively affect the course of the disease and very often provoke its occurrence. Of primary importance in prevention is the normalization and stability of the emotional state and nervous system. You should try to eliminate external irritants as much as possible. Ancient practices like yoga and meditation, as well as extra sleep, can help with this. In more severe situations, they use sedatives or use herbal teas. If psoriasis involves disorders of the nervous system - headaches, sleep disturbances, nervousness, then the use of medications is possible. Effective - motherwort, valerian, Nervo-Vit. They allow you to normalize your sleep patterns, increase your immune system, and improve your resistance to stress. It’s difficult to achieve results without making your own efforts; you need to take everything more calmly.

How to cure psoriasis forever?

Unfortunately, this is impossible; even after a long remission, another exacerbation may begin. You should always remember this and constantly carry out preventive procedures.

Psoriasis is a severe systemic disease with predominant damage to the skin and involvement of many other organs and systems in the process. In most cases, regular maintenance therapy prescribed by a competent specialist allows you to control the spread of the psoriatic process and significantly improve the patient’s quality of life.

Specialists at our clinic provide courses of treatment for psoriasis, both in the active phase and during remission. Our treatment is distinguished by an individual approach and a combination of the best techniques of Western and Eastern medicine. This approach allows patients to forget about disease relapses and side effects.

from treatment for many years.

Themes

Psoriasis, Skin diseases Date of publication: 05/18/2018 Date of update: 07/09/2021

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Traditional methods with dermotonic effect

Such products increase skin tone and enhance its protective function. Depending on the stage of psoriasis and the severity of the disease, take one or more remedies.

1. A decoction of spiny steelhead. Pour a tablespoon of chopped root into 2 cups of boiling water.
   Take half a glass 3-4 times a day. Prickly steelweed
2. Infusion of violet tricolor. Proportion - 1:10, take 1 tbsp. l. 3 times a day.
3. Gray blackberries - juice, fresh fruits, decoction. Proportion 1:10, take a third of a glass 3 times a day, before meals.
4. Tincture of mullein scepter. 1-2 tbsp. l. Pour a glass of boiling water over the flowers of the plant. Take 1 tbsp. l. 3 times a day, after meals.
5. Common raspberries - fruits, juice, fruit decoction. Drink in small sips throughout the day, proportion 1:20. A decoction of leaves and flowers (2 tsp per glass of boiling water) take half a glass 4 times a day.
6. Sea buckthorn - juice, infusion, decoctions. Take half a glass 3 times a day (proportion 1:10). Sea buckthorn oil 1-2 tbsp. l. per day with food.
7. Lesser duckweed infusion. Pour in 1 tsp. plants with a glass of boiling water. Take a glass 3 times a day.
8. Tincture of common lilac. Take 1 tbsp. l. flowers, leaves or buds, pour a glass of boiling water and leave for 6 hours. Take 1-2 tbsp. l. 3 times a day.
9. Juice from celery and parsley roots. Take 1-3 tbsp. l. once a day.
10. Infusion of thuja occidentalis. Pour 1 tbsp. l. young shoots with a glass of boiling water. Drink this infusion in 3 doses, half an hour before meals.
11. Eucalyptus globulus tincture. Take 5-20 drops once daily.
12. Thorn decoction. Take 1 tsp.
    flowers and pour a glass of boiling water. Take half a glass 2-3 times a day. Thorny thorn
13. Infusion or decoction of sandy sedge. 2 tsp. pour chopped rhizomes with 2 cups of boiling water. Take half a glass 4 times a day.
14. Decoction of prickly tartar. Pour a tablespoon of leaves or flowers into a glass of boiling water. Take 1 tbsp. l. 3-4 times a day.

Effect of use

Herbal medicine cannot boast of lightning-fast results. At least a month must pass for the beneficial substances obtained from herbs to accumulate in the body and begin to act. When used externally, the result will be noticeable within two weeks. If the healing composition does not improve the condition of the skin on the head after this period, then you should use another drug, since the one you have chosen is not suitable for the skin.

It happens that at first there is a positive trend, and then at some point the removal of keratinized scales stops. Dermatologists say that the skin is simply accustomed to ointments or compresses. Therefore, you will need to stop using them for two weeks and then resume the treatments.

If irritation occurs, which manifests itself in increased itching, increased deposits, the formation of a waxy crust, or redness of the skin, we recommend that you stop using herbs.

Herbal medicine may well relieve you of psoriasis. It is used as an additional remedy that goes along with medications prescribed by a trichologist or dermatologist.

Herbal decoctions, healing ointments, various tinctures based on roots, inflorescences, leaves, blades of grass and fruits can eliminate the symptoms of exacerbation of the disease, because they have a restorative, sedative, antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effect.