Psoriasis: What is it

Psoriasis refers to a non-contagious, chronic autoimmune disease, which affects the human skin and often enough the joints. In the majority of patients psoriasis occurs before the age of 40, and affects about 2% of the population without a specific etiology. Its occurrence in young populations is extremely rare.

The psychological impact on the patient is often intense due to the clinical symptoms of Psoriasis. The person socially feels cut off, consequently his daily life becomes difficult. 

Psoriasis: Causes of the disease

The onset and progression of this condition may be due to both genetic and environmental factors, with some indications suggesting a hereditary predisposition to the disease.  Its appearance is seasonal, with 2 outbreaks per year (spring and winter). Sunshine and high temperatures suppress it. 

A number of factors such as stress, smoking, alcohol consumption, climate (especially low temperatures), excessive sun exposure, obesity, and taking certain medications, can increase symptoms’ severity. Specific infections often trigger the disease, in people with a genetic predisposition.

Psoriasis: Indications and signs 

Psoriasis has mainly mild symptoms in ¾ of patients, and various symptoms. Red patches of skin covered with thick, silvery scales, are the most common appearance of these. These scales most often occur on the elbows, knees and generally on the joints, as well as the scalp.

The main symptoms of Psoriasis are the following:

• Erythrodermic psoriasis with skin inflammation and intense redness
• Pustular psoriasis due to the presence of pustules
• Guttate psoriasis with spots like stains
• Bleeding skin with severe dryness and cracked skin
• Feeling pain, burning or itching
• Joint stiffness, as a sign of psoriatic arthritis – treated with particular attention by treating physicians.

Psoriasis and Medical Acupuncture

Acupuncture is considered as an alternative treatment for Psoriasis disease, in combination with Herbal Therapy. The direct relationship of this disease with the intense stress and anxiety the patient experiences, guides the Doctor /Acupuncturist to the appropriate Acupuncture Treatment-protocols.

In the majority of cases, the Doctor/Acupuncturist suggests changes in the eating habits of the patient but also in his lifestyle, in order to minimize the symptoms. The aim is the reduction in the number and size of scales, as well as their redness, at the end of the appointed treatment.