Psoriasis Sufferers, Discrimination and Humiliation

Psoriasis is not just a physical skin condition, it has wider implications for those who suffer with it. A global psoriasis survey found that 84% of psoriasis sufferers had experienced discrimination and humiliation due to the condition.  The skin condition is characterised by red or white rashes that are thick, patchy, and scaly. The skin can be very itchy and uncomfortable and may be prone to bleeding. Psoriasis is not contagious. It is actually linked to a problem with the immune system, which treats healthy skin cells as if they were an infection, therefore making new cells at a much faster rate. This causes thickening of the skin and a rash. It is most common on the scalp, elbows, knees, and lower back; but can appear elsewhere. Even the nails may be affected. Psoriasis can get worse with

• Skin injury, wounds or infection
• Stress
• Smoking
• Changes in the weather - sunburn or cold temperatures can both be triggers
• Reaction to certain medications, foods or drinks (e.g. caffeine, alcohol)

Find out more about psoriasis from the UK Psoriasis Association. If you have psoriasis, the first line of treatment is normally creams or ointments to moisturise and soothe the skin. Ingredients in creams prescribed by the GP may include vitamin D or steroids. However, these may not be effective or ideal for long term use and many patients would prefer to find a more natural treatment.

Is the sun a natural cure for psoriasis?

Many of those who suffer with psoriasis find that it can get better in the summer due to the additional to ultraviolet (UV) light, The combination of longer daylight hours, more time spent outside and stronger sun rays all combine to increase the amount of UV exposure for the skin. However, it is very important not to overexpose the skin to the sun. Sunburn can be very detrimental and can cause severe flareups in the condition, so it's important not to stay out too long and to use sun protection. UV rays can be harmful to the skin in other ways too, potentially causing premature ageing, pigmentation and even skin cancer. Therefore sunscreen is essential to prevent sun damage, premature ageing and even skin cancer. Unfortunately for psoriasis sufferers, sunscreen can also irritate the skin. Choose products that are suitable for sensitive skin or children, as these are less likely to irritate the problem; but if they do cause irritation, switch to a different product before it gets worse. Those with severe psoriasis may also be uncomfortable about showing it and prefer to keep the skin covered up due to the embarrassment that it can cause in public. There is now another way of getting 'safe' light-based treatments for psoriasis that can be accessed all year round.