Psoriasis is not just a skin disorder; it's an autoimmune disease that interferes with the body's normal cycle of skin cell turnover. What makes it more complicated is that no single cause can be identified. A combination of genetic, immune, environmental, and lifestyle factors contributes to the development of Psoriasis.
Interestingly, reports indicate that studies in India have found the prevalence of psoriasis among adults to range between 0.44% and 2.8%. In this blog, we will explore the underlying causes of psoriasis, discuss its symptoms and subtypes, and examine treatment methods. It is worth pointing out that Dr Batra’s® Homeopathy treatment works by addressing the root causes, improving immunity, and offering personalised care to reduce flare-ups and manage symptoms effectively.
What Causes Psoriasis?
Psoriasis occurs when your immune system mistakenly attacks healthy skin cells. This causes your skin to regenerate at a faster rate, approximately 3 to 7 times normal, resulting in thick, scaly patches on the surface.
Here are 2 of the most common causes of Psoriasis.
- Genetics: If there is a family history of psoriasis, you are at an increased risk of developing psoriasis. Research indicates that nearly 1 in 3 patients has a close blood relative with the condition.
- Immune System Dysfunction: Psoriasis is an autoimmune condition in which the immune system targets healthy skin cells, leading to inflammation and accelerated cell turnover.
What are the triggers of Psoriasis?
- Environmental Factors: Weather fluctuations, particularly cold and dry weather, may trigger or exacerbate symptoms.
- Infections: Throat infections, particularly streptococcal, and viral infections are known to aggravate flare-ups, especially in children.
- Stress: Stress, whether emotional or physical, is a key factor. It not only compromises the immune system but also exacerbates current inflammation.
- Skin Injuries: Cuts, burns, or bites by insects can initiate a response known as the Koebner phenomenon, where injured skin becomes the site of new psoriasis lesions.
- Medications: Medications such as beta-blockers, anti-malarial drugs, and lithium are reported to induce or aggravate psoriasis.
- Lifestyle Factors: Heavy alcohol consumption, smoking, obesity, and an unhealthy diet may trigger flare-ups.
Insights from a Global Study
A study published in the International Journal of AYUSH Case Reports found that individualised homeopathic treatment reduced PASI scores from 22.9 to 0.6 within 9 months, with no relapse for 2 years, demonstrating homeopathy’s proven role in managing psoriasis.
Key Symptoms of Psoriasis
Even though symptoms vary, the most common include:
- Raised, red patches of skin covered with silvery-white scales
- Itching, burning, or soreness in affected areas
- Dry, cracked skin that may bleed
- Thickened, pitted, or discoloured nails
- Pain and stiffness in joints (in cases of psoriatic arthritis)
Psoriasis often appears on the scalp, elbows, knees, lower back, and nails, but it can affect any part of the body.
Types of Psoriasis
There are several clinical forms of psoriasis. Understanding the type is crucial for effective treatment.
Plaque Psoriasis or Scalp Psoriasis (Psoriasis Vulgaris)
- Most common type
- Characterised by thick, scaly patches
- Psoriasis typically appears on the elbows, knees, and scalp.
Guttate Psoriasis
- Appears as small, red, water droplet-like spots
- Often triggered by infections like strep throat.
- More common in children and young adults
Inverse Psoriasis
- Occurs in skin folds like the underarms or the groin
- Shiny, smooth, inflamed skin without visible scales
Pustular Psoriasis
- Rare form marked by white, pus-filled blisters surrounded by red skin
- Can be localised (hands and feet) or widespread
Erythrodermic Psoriasis
- The most severe and rare type affects at least 75% of the body
- Widespread redness, peeling, and pain
- It can be life-threatening
- Requires immediate medical attention
Dr Batra’s® pro tip:
Use fragrance-free moisturisers multiple times a day to prevent dryness aggravating psoriasis.
How Homeopathy helps in managing Psoriasis
Homeopathy treats the root causes of psoriasis by balancing the immune system and reducing inflammation. Here’s how Homeopathy helps manage Psoriasis:
Treats the Root Cause: Targets immune dysfunction and reduces sensitivity to psoriasis triggers, such as stress and infections.
Personalised Care: Remedies are tailored to your specific symptoms, lifestyle, and medical history.
Safe for Long-Term Use: Free from steroids and harsh chemicals, suitable for all age groups.
Reduces Recurrence: Helps control flare-ups and delays progression by strengthening the immune system overall.
Effective for Scalp Psoriasis: Addresses the underlying causes of scalp psoriasis with internal remedies, not just surface-level treatments.
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