Everyday activities, like shopping, getting a haircut, going to the gym or swimming at the beach are things that most of us take for granted. But, for the estimated one million South Africans living with psoriasis, the stigma and feelings of self-consciousness and embarrassment associated with unsightly skin and messy flaking can mean that these are thoroughly unpleasant activities to be avoided.
Furthermore, the skin lesions of psoriasis often cause considerable pain and discomfort, itching and bleeding, impacting on sleep, work and enjoyment of life. This is especially true when the palms of the hands, soles of the feet or nails are involved, as they commonly are.
In surveys conducted in the USA, almost half of people with psoriasis reported sleeping difficulties and almost one third said that they experienced problems using their hands or walking in the last month. Many of them said that they had experienced trouble-receiving service at the hair salon, shops or in restaurants.
What is psoriasis?
For reasons that are not fully understood the immune system causes skin cells to grow too fast. In normal skin, the cells mature over about a month and are then sloughed off and replaced; but, in psoriasis, they mature in a few days, piling up and causing uncomfortable ‘plaques’ and scales.
The scalp is often affected, causing unsightly scaling and flaking. Around 50% of people with the condition also have involvement of the nails, and 1 in 4 can develop a severe form of arthritis, that ultimately can become crippling.
Although psoriasis often first appears between the ages of 15 and 25 years, males and females of all ages and ethnicities are affected.
Anxiety and depression
It is not surprising that people with psoriasis are predisposed to low mood and feeling anxious and depressed. Even those with milder forms of the disease can feel stigmatised, have poor body image, experience shame and guilt, and have expectations of social rejection.
It was recently reported that 84% of people with psoriasis reported feeling that they were the object of staring! Nearly three quarters preferred to avoid public places during flare-ups. Around 40% said that they had experienced problems with, or even avoided sex and intimacy.
Lifestyle changes can make a difference to living with psoriasis
So is there anything that a person with psoriasis can do for themselves to make life better?
The answer is definitely YES!
Certain lifestyle choices significantly impact psoriasis and the frequency and severity of flare-ups. Simple changes to lifestyle, some precautions and a bit of self-care can make the world of difference.
- Smoking, excess alcohol intake and overeating not only increase the risk of psoriasis, but also interfere with its treatment. Doctors recommend stopping smoking and avoiding (or at least cutting down!) alcohol to reduce flare-ups. Weight loss has been shown to be especially effective. In a recent Italian study, diet and exercise resulted in a 48% reduction in symptoms, over and above the effects of medical treatment! Researchers suspect that changing these lifestyle factors influences the immune system and affects the inflammatory pathways that cause psoriasis.
- Psoriasis, not only increases feelings of stress, but stress itself can actually make psoriasis worse. Learning how to manage stress is important. Spend time with friends, meditate, learn about mindfulness, focus on the positive and make relaxation a part of your daily routine.
- Moisturise, moisturise, moisturise! A fragrance-free moisturiser cream or ointment should be used after bathing and throughout the day. It helps the skin to heal and reduces redness, discomfort and itching. In dry climates, a humidifier can make being indoors more comfortable. Applying a scale-softening product to remove excess skin can also help prevent psoriasis plaques from cracking and flaking. Removing the scale helps to reduce itch and makes itch-relieving lotions and ointments more effective. Ask your pharmacist for advice.
- In summer, avoid hot baths and limit time in the shower. Cold showers may provide some relief. Try keeping your moisturiser in the fridge so that it is cool and soothing when you apply it to your skin.
- Try to avoid injuring yourself. Psoriasis often flares up in cuts and after damaging the skin. Be careful when shaving or trimming your nails. For the same reason, for people with psoriasis, tattoos are BAD NEWS! Definitely avoid subjecting yourself to that!
- Get some sun. Summer is the perfect time to be outdoors. Be careful though; about 20 minutes at a time is enough. One word of caution; be very careful to avoid sunburn, which will make your psoriasis worse.
- Find out about treatments for psoriasis. Ask your doctor or speak to someone at the local clinic. Effective treatment is available for psoriasis; for the whole body, top to toe. Topical treatments that combine two active ingredients provide dual complementary actions that relieve symptoms and improve quality of life. Some are also available in the form of a solution that is easy and convenient to apply to the scalp.
- Seek support. The South African Psoriasis Association aims to inspire those with the condition to step out of the shadows. For access to the latest information and support from people who understand, find them at http://www.psoriasis.org.za, or on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/Psoriasis.Association.SA
In 2016, psoriasis should not be a reason to suffer and miss out. And now is the perfect time to step out with your friends and family and enjoy what our beautiful summer has to offer!
For more info and treatment options
Website: www.psoriasis.org.za
Facebook: www.facebook.com/Psoriasis.Association.SA
Adcock Ingram Limited. Reg. No. 1949/034385/06. Private Bag X69, Bryanston, 2021,
South Africa. Tel. +27 11 635 0000 www.adcock.com 10251752 01/2016
Rochelle is the founder and driving force behind Aesthetic Appointment. With a passion for the aesthetics and pro-ageing industry in South Africa, she has been in the aesthetic publishing industry since 2012, dedicated to creating a valuable platform for insights and knowledge, bridging the gap between patients and doctors - delivering reliable, medical-based information. Rochelle firmly believes in the power of a good skincare regimen, especially when started at home, and is committed to educating consumers about the myriad of treatments, procedures, and products available to them.
- Rochelle Friedmanhttps://www.aestheticappointment.co.za/author/rochelle
- Rochelle Friedmanhttps://www.aestheticappointment.co.za/author/rochelle
- Rochelle Friedmanhttps://www.aestheticappointment.co.za/author/rochelle
- Rochelle Friedmanhttps://www.aestheticappointment.co.za/author/rochelle
