2-4% of the population have psoriasis which is a chronic activation of the immune system. This condition is characterized by red well-demarcated patches on the skin with silvery surface scales. The rash is usually symmetrical and frequently occurs on the elbows, knees and scalp, although it can occur anywhere on the body. The fingernails can show pitting or small dints. Psoriasis often runs in families and up to 30% of people with psoriasis develop psoriatic arthritis over time.
Most doctors treat psoriasis with prescriptions for topical calcipitriol or corticosteroid creams or ointments. These settle the rash but do not help the psoriasis to resolve or prevent progression to psoriatic arthritis.
As with all autoimmune conditions we should remember that lifestyle factors are extremely important in managing psoriasis. What are these?
1. Minimizing stress, being as relaxed as possible and enjoying quality sleep are especially important. Psoriasis is one skin condition that is closely linked to stress and reducing stress will help the body heal.
2. Exercise benefits psoriasis and reduces T-helper 1 cells that are involved in developing the condition. We should all do exercise that we enjoy.
3. Healthy nutrition is always important. Avoiding inflammatory sugars and excess refined carbohydrates, excess caffeine or alcohol is helpful. There is a link between psoriasis and type 2 diabetes and obesity. Eating foods with anti-inflammatory oils such as fish, fish oil, ground flax seeds, avocado and olive oil are beneficial. Eating plenty of vegetables will create an alkaline environment in the body which is good for health. Processed foods from ‘food factories’ with added chemicals can aggravate psoriasis.
Other things to remember
– Streptococcal bacterial throat infections can trigger psoriasis, especially guttate (small spot) psoriasis.
– Some drugs such as chloroquine (or quinine in bitter lemon, tonic water), lithium, beta-blockers, ACE inhibitors can aggravate psoriasis.
– Smoking tobacco makes psoriasis worse
– Sunlight benefits 90% psoriasis and taking Vitamin D3 and K2 to ensure optimal blood levels of vitamin D is extremely beneficial.
– Vitamin D, zinc, iron and vitamin B12 levels should be checked to be optimal.
– Turmeric and yellow saffron are beneficial herbs.
– Ayurvedic medicine and Traditional Chinese Medicine have herbal treatments that can benefit psoriasis.
Psoriasis affects people’s confidence in the way they present to others. Topical medications will be very helpful, but lifestyle measures are an essential part of the integrated management.
*The content of this post is general in nature, the information should not be relied on as advice, and persons should seek advice relevant to their circumstances.
Dr John Walters has been involved in the practice and promotion of integrative medicine for more than 35 years. John’s commitment in his medical practice is to treat patients individually according to their specific history, needs and lifestyle. He uses an educational emphasis with patients to help them understand and optimise their healing and ongoing well-being and health. Click here to book an appointment with Dr Walters.
