16 Frequently Asked Questions about Psoriasis: Break the Mystery of Disease and Find Hope in Life

"I am obviously healthy, how come I suddenly got this disease?"

"Can this disease be cured? Will I always be like this?"

…

These confusions may be hidden in the heart of every psoriasis patient. Today, let us unveil the mystery of psoriasis and use 16 frequently asked questions to analyze this difficult "skin killer" in all aspects.

Q1What exactly is psoriasis?

A: Simply put, psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory skin disease. It is like a group of "little monsters" that come to your skin to cause trouble, causing skin cells to grow wildly, accumulating into layers of scales, and forming red spots and plaques on the skin. Although it looks a bit scary, it is not contagious and will not be transmitted to people around you like a cold.

Q2Why do people get psoriasis?

A: Genetic factors play an important role. If there is a psoriasis patient in your family, then you are more likely to carry the relevant gene. Immune system disorders can also "help the evil" and mistakenly attack your own skin cells. In addition, various triggers in life, such as infection, excessive mental stress, trauma, certain drugs, etc., may become the "trigger" for psoriasis.

Q3What are the types of psoriasis?

A: There are four common types clinically: Psoriasis vulgaris is the most common, with snowflake-like scales appearing on the skin, covering the erythema; Pustular psoriasis is characterized by the appearance of densely packed small sterile pustules on the basis of erythema; Arthritis psoriasis not only affects the skin, but also the joints, causing joint pain, swelling, and deformation; Erythrodermic psoriasis is a serious condition, with large areas of redness and desquamation on the skin all over the body, as if it had been burned by fire.

Q4Can psoriasis be cured?

A: At present, psoriasis cannot be completely cured, but don't lose heart! Through scientific and standardized treatment, we can achieve clinical cure, restore smooth skin, and stabilize the condition for a long time without recurrence. It's like flying a kite. Although the string is always there, we can make the kite fly high and stable without affecting our enjoyment of life.

Q5What are the treatments for psoriasis?

A: Topical medications are a common choice for mild to moderate patients, such as glucocorticoids and vitamin D3 derivatives, which can act directly on the skin to relieve symptoms; phototherapy uses the magical power of ultraviolet rays to inhibit the excessive proliferation of skin cells; for patients with more serious conditions, systemic drug treatments such as methotrexate and biological agents can regulate body functions from the inside and play a powerful therapeutic role. Traditional Chinese medicine can also bring different therapeutic effects to patients by regulating the body.

Q6Are biologics really that magical?

A: Biological agents are like the "secret weapon" for treating psoriasis. They precisely attack the key targets in the pathogenesis, have a fast onset of action, good efficacy, can quickly improve skin symptoms, and improve the quality of life of patients. However, they are not omnipotent, the price is relatively high, and some patients may have contraindications to use them, so they must be used under the guidance of a doctor.

Q7Can children also get psoriasis?

A: Children are not immune, and psoriasis in children is often related to infection, such as tonsillitis, colds, etc. Their rash is often dotted, like raindrops sprinkled on the skin. When treating, special consideration should be given to the growth and development characteristics of children, and safe and effective methods should be selected.

Q8 Will psoriasis worsen during pregnancy?

A: The body of a pregnant woman is like a magical "microcosm". Hormone levels and immune systems are changing, and the condition of psoriasis may also fluctuate. Some patients will have their condition aggravated, while others will have their condition alleviated. In any case, you must communicate with your doctor in a timely manner and receive treatment under the premise of ensuring the safety of mother and baby.

Q9 Do I need to strictly avoid certain foods if I have psoriasis? Can I eat seafood?

A: Generally speaking, you don’t need to be too strict. But it’s better to stay away from spicy food and alcohol, which are “little bombs” that can easily irritate the skin. Psoriasis patients don’t necessarily have to avoid eating seafood. Some patients will have their condition flare up like a ignited gunpowder barrel after eating seafood, so they must resolutely abstain from it; while some patients will have no reaction after eating seafood, so they can enjoy it in moderation. Therefore, everyone should pay more attention to their body’s reaction.

Q10 Can I wear makeup if I have psoriasis?

A: Of course! But you should choose mild, non-irritating cosmetics, just like putting on a soft "protective coat" for your skin. Avoid using products containing irritating ingredients such as alcohol and fragrances. When removing makeup, you should also clean thoroughly to let your skin breathe freely.

Q11 What should I do if my skin becomes dry?

A: Dry skin is an old friend of psoriasis patients, which makes itching and scaling worse. At this time, moisturizers are our "savior", such as Vaseline, urea cream, etc. Apply it every day to replenish moisture to the skin and make it moisturized again. When bathing, the water temperature should not be too high, the time should not be too long, and do not use too irritating soap.

Q12How to relieve itching?

A: Itching is like a nasty little bug that makes you want to scratch it. But you must resist! You can use topical medications, cold compresses, moisturizers, etc. to relieve itching. It is also important to keep a good mood. Anxiety and tension will make the itching stronger.

Q13 Will psoriasis affect life expectancy?

A: Under normal circumstances, psoriasis itself will not directly shorten life. However, if the disease is serious and causes complications, or the patient is troubled by psychological problems for a long time, it may have an impact on health. Therefore, active treatment and maintaining an optimistic attitude are crucial.

Q14Can I exercise if I have psoriasis?

A: Exercise is a "treasure". It can not only strengthen your body, but also improve your mood. It has many benefits for psoriasis patients. Jogging, swimming, yoga, etc. are all good choices, but you must be careful when exercising and don't get hurt.

Q15How to prevent recurrence of psoriasis?

A: Maintaining good living habits, regular work and rest, balanced diet, and moderate exercise are like building a solid "wall" for the body; avoid infection, mental stress, trauma and other inducing factors; strictly follow the doctor's instructions for treatment, do not stop or change the medicine without authorization; have regular follow-up visits to keep the doctor informed of the disease's condition.

Q16 How should psoriasis patients adjust their mindset?

A: Psoriasis not only affects the body, but also brings a heavy psychological burden. Everyone should know that it is not your fault, nor is it invincible. Communicate more with family and friends, join patient mutual aid organizations, share each other's experiences and insights, and you will find that you are not alone.

Although psoriasis is difficult to treat, as long as we master the correct knowledge, face it positively and treat it scientifically, we will be able to "coexist peacefully" with it and embrace a better life again.

💗Warm reminder: Once you have psoriasis, you should go to the dermatology department of a regular hospital and receive standardized treatment under the guidance of a specialist. Do not delay the condition.