Guttate Psoriasis: Answering Important Questions

Psoriasis is an autoimmune skin disease which appears as red, scaly rash on the skin. While this skin disease is non-threatening, it can be embarrassing in social situations. Apart from the cosmetic impact, simple tasks such as leaning your elbows on the table or wearing fitted clothes can be a problem.

Guttate psoriasis is a type of psoriasis that is common in children. Guttate is derived from the Latin word gutta and means ‘drops’. True to its name, the disease appears like tiny red or pink droplet patches on the skin.Here we answer some commonly asked questions on this lesser known type of psoriasis.

1. Is guttate psoriasis contagious?

No guttate psoriasis – like other types of psoriasis – is non-contagious. So, you don’t need to worry if a friend or a colleague has the condition. A handshake isn’t going to make you catch the rash.

2. What are the main symptoms of guttate psoriasis?

Guttate psoriasis shows up as small, scaly spots on the skin. The spots are red and appear in the shape of tear drops. This type of psoriasis may be triggered by or accompanied by throat infection or an asthmatic attack.

3. Which parts of the body are most likely to get affected by guttate psoriasis?

Guttate psoriasis scars are most likely to appear on your upper arms, elbows, thighs, chest, stomach, and any areas where your skin folds, such as the underarms or behind your ears. Patches of psoriasis can appear on the feet and ankles as well. This may make wearing closed shoes a problem due to the itching sensation

4. My mother has frequent recurrences of guttate psoriasis. Could I develop it genetically?

Psoriasis is an autoimmune disease which is genetically passed on. If any of your family members have suffered from psoriasis patches, chances are that you too might develop them. There is no clear way yet to avoid psoriasis or to get vaccinated against it.

5. I lead a hectic life. Could stress cause guttate psoriasis?

Stress doesn’t directly cause guttate psoriasis but it is a known trigger for all types of psoriasis. Most people who suffer from psoriasis have experienced the first breakout during a very stressful period in their lives. Often psoriasis is known to develop in people suffering from PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder).

6. Is the treatment for guttate psoriasis painful? Will I need surgery?

Surgery is not used in psoriasis treatment. However, if the scars left are too severe, laser treatment can be used to heal the skin. These days many painless treatment options, such as homeopathic medicines for psoriasis, are available.

7. Any preventive measures I can take to avoid getting this disease?

Avoid unnecessary trauma to skin such as tattoos orpiercings. Psoriasis is a disease of the immune system often triggered by bouts of chronic stress, asthmatic attacks, or viral infection. While there are no concrete ways to completely avoid psoriasis, you can reduce the severity of the condition by protecting your skin from harsh sunlight and eating a balanced diet with less spicy foods.

8. I am undergoing psoriasis treatment. Will there be any permanent scars on my skin?

Being a skin disease, psoriasis almost always leaves a mark in the form of skin discolouration or temporary marks. In extreme cases of psoriasis, there may be permanent scarring. The best way to avoid permanent scarring is to control the urge to itch the psoriasis spots on your skin. Your doctor will prescribe medicated creams that will leave as few scars as possible.

9. Any dietary tips that will help in my psoriasis treatment?

If you are undergoing psoriasis treatment, you will need to avoid inflammatory foods. Following a healthy diet may not cure psoriasis but it will help in controlling symptoms of the disease. Minimize intake of red meat, dairy products, eggplant, paprika, tabasco sauce, and tomatoes. Alcohol, cigarettes, and caffeine are an absolute no-no.

    10.Is there anage group that is more vulnerable to guttate psoriasis?

Guttate psoriasis is more common in children and in adults below 30 years of age. Children or teenagers who suffer from viral infections such as rubella and chicken pox are also highly susceptible to this skin infection. This being said, anyone of any age can get psoriasis.

Homeopathy and psoriasis treatment

Homeopathic medicines for psoriasis offer holistic care and cure. Homeopathy adopts a gentle approach to healing and treating skin diseases. The medicines prescribed are free from harmful side-effects that are normally associated with chemicals. This makes homeopathy an especially great option for young children who are the major victims of guttate psoriasis. The focus lies in finding long term solutions instead of providing temporary relief. Homeopathy pulls out the problem from its root cause. Psoriasis treatment has never been this painless and comfortable.