Psoriasis: Myths vs Facts

This month, Price Skin Care Clinic joins the National Psoriasis Foundation in celebrating ‘National Psoriasis Awareness Month’, shining a light on this condition that affects more than 8 million Americans.

“Psoriasis is a skin condition which causes red or discolored, scaly and itchy patches on the skin,” says Richard, Price, M.D. of Price Skin Care Clinic in Ridgeland, MS. “We not only treat psoriasis but also help patients and family members understand the truth about psoriasis and support them as they learn to live with this ongoing condition.”

In honor of ‘National Psoriasis Awareness Week’ and those who suffer from this condition, this blog post dispels some of the myths surrounding the psoriasis with the facts.

Myth: Psoriasis is contagious
Fact: Psoriasis is not contagious. In fact, it is an autoimmune condition that affects the skin and cannot be spread through physical contact. The condition is a result of an overactive immune response and is often influenced by genetic factors.

Myth: Psoriasis is just a skin condition
Fact: Although psoriasis primarily affects the skin, it can affect health in other ways. Because it is a systemic autoimmune disorder, psoriasis can be associated with psoriatic arthritis (affecting the joints) and has also been linked to cardiovascular disease, diabetes and depression. Comprehensive management of the condition is key to overall health.

Myth: Poor hygiene causes psoriasis
Fact: Because psoriasis is a systemic autoimmune disorder, hygiene has nothing to do with the condition. It cannot be prevented or cured by improving hygiene alone.

Myth: Psoriasis can be cured
Fact: While there is currently no cure for psoriasis, there are treatments available to manage symptoms and improve quality of life. These treatments include topical therapies, phototherapy, systemic medications and biologics – all used to reduce inflammation and control the immune response associated with psoriasis.

Myth: Only adults get psoriasis
Fact: Although psoriasis presents more commonly in adults, it can occur at any age, including in children. Pediatric psoriasis can present unique challenges in the management and treatment of the condition. It’s important for those with psoriasis of any age to receive appropriate treatment and support.

Myth: All psoriasis is the same
Fact: There are five different types of psoriasis including plaque, guttate, inverse, pustular, and erythrodermic psoriasis, each with distinct characteristics and symptoms. Each may require tailored treatment approaches.

Myth: Sun exposure always worsens psoriasis
Fact: Moderate exposure to the sun can sometimes help alleviate symptoms of psoriasis due to the ultraviolet light’s effect. However, too much sun can be harmful, leading to sunburn which can trigger flare-ups.

It’s best to consult with a skincare profession to help determine the best approach for using sunlight as part of your psoriasis management plan.

Myth: Diet has no impact on psoriasis
Fact: Some individuals with psoriasis find that certain dietary changes can help manage their symptoms.

A few dietary considerations that may benefit those with psoriasis include:
• A diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods (green tea, berries, oily fish)
• Fruits and vegetables
• Maintaining a healthy weight
• Gluten-free diet
• Avoiding trigger foods that may include alcohol, red meat or dairy products.

Individual responses to dietary changes can vary, so it can be helpful for those with psoriasis to consult with their healthcare provider or a nutritionist to design a nutrition plan as part of a psoriasis management plan.

If you or someone you know suffers from psoriasis, or you have itchy, scaly or red patches of skin, give call us at 601.992.3996 and we’ll schedule you for a skin check. If you have psoriasis, we can treat the condition and teach you how to manage it.