Is psoriasis a rare disease?  

 

Psoriasis is a common and recurring skin condition affecting 2% - 3% of the population.  

 

What causes Psoriasis?

 

Psoriasis is a multifactorial genetic disease. About 30% of people with psoriasis have a family history of the condition, and certain genes have been linked to psoriasis. However, the condition will only appear if it is triggered by an environmental factor. Triggers may include stressful life events, infection with certain viruses and bacteria, skin injury, or reactions to certain medications.

 

The cause of psoriasis is not certain, but it is thought to be related to an immune system problem. More specifically, the altered life cycle of one key cell in the body - a type of white blood cell called a T lymphocyte. These T cells normally travel throughout the body detecting and fighting off foreign substances, such as viruses or bacteria. However, in individuals with psoriasis, the T cells attack healthy skin cells by mistake. As a result, cells build up rapidly on the skin’s surface. These form a thick, scaly layer which can be itchy or painful.

 

Is psoriasis contagious?

 

Psoriasis is not contagious. It cannot be caught from touching someone who has the condition, swimming in the same pool, sharing towels, or eating food prepared by a person with psoriasis.

 

How about diet?

 

Diet is thought to play only a small role in psoriasis. In general, a well balanced diet is advisable in people with psoriasis, just as it is in everyone.

 

Is psoriasis incurable?  

 

The treatment of psoriasis should be individualized and depends on patient and disease factors. Treatment is concerned with control rather than cure. Psoriasis can be managed with sustained judicious use of various treatments.

 

Any alternative treatments exists that can cure psoriasis?  

 

No conventional and alternative treatments exists that can cure psoriasis.

 

What is the role of climate and sunlight?

 

Hot, humid environments tend to make bad cases of psoriasis worse. In contrast, sunlight and dry, sunny climates, as a rule are helpful - particularly in mild cases.