If you live with psoriasis, you know how frustrating it can be to manage.

But take heart in a couple of facts:

1. You’re not alone — psoriasis affects 2%–3% of people all around the world.
2. Using HealthTap’s virtual care features can be an effective part of managing your condition.

Additionally, techniques and interventions have come a long way.

Psoriasis can affect more than just your physical health. The unfortunate truth is that there are sometimes social stigmas associated with psoriasis. Because of that, it’s a condition that can create a strain on your mental health.

In this post, we aim to dispel any myths, provide tips, and increase awareness of psoriasis in order to abolish any misguided impressions surrounding this disease.

What is psoriasis?

Psoriasis is a common, chronic autoimmune skin condition that is cyclical and can be recurring.

There are several types of psoriasis. The most common type is plaque psoriasis, which can affect any part of the body. During flare-ups, which can last anywhere from a few weeks to several months, cells build up rapidly on the surface of the skin, and form scales and red patches that are itchy and sometimes painful.

According to the International Federation of Psoriasis Associations (IFPA), psoriasis affects more than 125 million people globally.

Contrary to what many people believe, psoriasis is not contagious.

Who can get psoriasis?

Anyone. According to the CDC, psoriasis mainly affects adults and is most common in the age group 50–69. But children can get it, too.

Gender doesn’t appear to play a role — men and women are about at equal risk for developing psoriasis.

Prominent celebrities who live with psoriasis include Kim Kardashian and Kris Jenner, Jonathan Van Ness, and Cara Delevingne.

Common signs and symptoms of psoriasis

• Red patches of skin covered with thick, silvery scales.
• Small scaling spots (commonly seen in children).
• Dry, cracked skin that may bleed.
• Itching, burning, or soreness.
• Thickened, pitted, or ridged nails.
• Swollen and stiff joints.

Treatment

There is no cure for psoriasis.

The main goal of treatment is to stop the skin cells from rapidly growing. This is achieved by managing symptoms and avoiding triggers.

In order to prevent your symptoms from getting worse, avoid these common triggers:

• Stress.
• Skin injuries, including cuts, scrapes and insect bites.
• Skin infections.
• Smoking.
• Heavy alcohol consumption.

If you’ve tried some of these methods without success, a HealthTap doctor may be able to help by suggesting different or additional lifestyle changes, prescribing medication, or recommending specialty care.

“Mild psoriasis is the type of condition that HealthTap is perfect for because it’s very manageable with the right care,” said Geoffrey Rutledge, HealthTap’s Chief Medical Officer. “Our doctors can usually diagnose your condition over a video call and prescribe medication, saving you the time of going for an in-person visit. HealthTap Prime members can select a primary care provider who gets to know them personally and manages their chronic conditions over time.”

All of this can be done on HealthTap’s online platform or Android and iOS apps.

Mental health impacts of psoriasis

People with psoriasis commonly have low self-esteem, are socially withdrawn, and suffer from depression.

A 2016 Novartis study of more than 8,300 participants revealed that “84% of people with moderate-to-severe psoriasis suffer discrimination and humiliation, with many being stared at in public.”

That can be a stressful experience. And as noted earlier, stress can exacerbate psoriasis symptoms.

What can people do?

For people suffering from psoriasis, try pop-star Cyndi Lauper’s advice. Lauper has been an active advocate of psoriasis awareness since her diagnosis in 2010. In an interview with the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), she shared her tips for managing her symptoms and encouraged people with psoriasis “to make a little time for you.” Stress reduction can go a long way to help decrease the severity of flare-ups.

For those of us who want to support people who have psoriasis, it’s worth considering the guidance provided in this World Health Organization (WHO) global report, which recommends “carrying out campaigns and training aimed at increasing knowledge and awareness of psoriasis among healthcare providers and society.”

By being informed and dispelling misguided comments when you see or hear them, you too can help fight the stigma and ignorance associated with psoriasis.

HealthTap can help

If you’ve been diagnosed, but your psoriasis causes pain or discomfort, and performing routine tasks has become more difficult, connect with a HealthTap doctor today.

If you suspect that you may have psoriasis or want to learn more, visit our topic page on psoriasis.