Get your facts straight on psoriasis

MANILA, Philippines - While the physical manifestations of psoriasis are easily visible — itchy, red and scaly patches on the skin — there is a lot more to this skin disorder than meets the eye.

Unfortunately, the many misconceptions surrounding psoriasis have led to hurtful and harmful myths that further perpetuate the wrong impression about this disorder, leaving a negative impact on the psychological and emotional well-being of the patients.

Treatment for psoriasis goes beyond clearing the skin lesions; there should be a change of the misinformed perspective.

There is no danger to getting close. A chronic skin condition largely characterized by thick, reddish and scaly patches of inflammation, psoriasis usually targets areas such as the elbows, knees, scalp, and genitals.

These unsightly lesions on the skin have led some to believe that the disease is highly contagious, making patients predisposed to discrimination and social phobia.

Although highly visible, psoriasis cannot be passed on simply through close physical or skin-to-skin contact such as touching, hugging or even swimming in the same pool.

Personal hygiene plays no role in the issue. Research shows that there is no clear evidence to prove a causal relationship between psoriasis and poor hygiene.

A disorder of the immune system, the development of psoriasis can be triggered by various factors, including genetic predisposition or environmental factors like stress and strain, climate changes or infection.

Psoriasis should not be taken lightly. While psoriasis generally targets the skin, other serious medical conditions may arise in severe cases.

Studies have shown that psoriasis has made patients more susceptible to heart and cardiovascular diseases. In such cases, patients are encouraged to lead a healthy lifestyle to avoid the health risks.

The problem goes beyond skin-deep. Unfortunately, the debilitating effects of this medical condition go beyond the physical.

Apart from the physical discomfort caused by severe itching and pain, patients diagnosed with psoriasis often experience bouts of sadness, despair, anger and poor self-image, especially during cycles of flare-ups and remissions.

It is common for individuals with psoriasis to feel embarrassed and self-conscious about their appearance when people give them questioning looks and keep their distance especially in public spaces.

There is life beyond psoriasis. Although science has yet to find a definite cure for psoriasis, there are various treatment options available, from topical medications to therapies, depending on several considerations: the type of psoriasis, severity, location of affected area, the patient’s age and medical history, as well as overall physical and emotional state.

Despite the lack of cure, there is hope for psoriasis-afflicted patients to lead a normal life and enjoy long-term relief through proper medical care and management.

The first step in this battle against psoriasis is awareness. Locally, Psoriasis Philippines (PsorPhil), a non-profit organization for afflicted patients and their families, doctors and caregivers, was established with the primary goal to provide support, advocate member rights, as well as educate the public on the disease.

For more information, contact PsorPhil at (+63 2) 379-4290, (+63) 922-829PSOR (7767), or toll-free number 1-800-10-848 PSOR (7767) or log on to http://www.psorphil.org. 

If you are suffering from the symptoms of psoriasis, consult a dermatologist.