Basic Questions About Psoriasis
सोरायसिस के बारे में बुनियादी सवाल
What is psoriasis?
Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune condition where the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy skin cells, causing them to grow too quickly. Normal skin cells regenerate in 28-30 days, but in psoriasis, this happens in just 3-4 days, leading to thick, silvery scales and red, inflamed patches. The immune system releases a chemical called IL-17 that signals skin cells to divide rapidly.
Is psoriasis contagious? Can it spread by touch?
No, psoriasis is NOT contagious. You cannot catch psoriasis from touching someone who has it, swimming in the same pool, or sharing food or clothes. Psoriasis is an autoimmune condition caused by genetics and immune system dysfunction, not by bacteria, viruses, or any infectious agent. Unfortunately, there is a common misconception that psoriasis spreads, which leads to unnecessary social stigma.
Is psoriasis genetic or hereditary?
Yes, psoriasis has a strong genetic component. The heritability is estimated between 60-90%. If one parent has psoriasis, a child has approximately 28% chance of developing it. If both parents have it, the risk increases to 65%. Over 80 susceptibility genes have been identified, with HLA-C*06:02 being the strongest genetic risk factor. However, having the genes doesn't guarantee you'll develop psoriasis - environmental triggers are also needed.
What are the different types of psoriasis?
There are several types: 1) Plaque Psoriasis (most common, 80-90% of cases) - thick red patches with silvery scales, 2) Guttate Psoriasis - small dot-like lesions, often triggered by strep throat, 3) Inverse Psoriasis - smooth red patches in skin folds, 4) Pustular Psoriasis - white blisters with pus, 5) Erythrodermic Psoriasis - widespread redness covering most of body (rare but serious), 6) Nail Psoriasis - pitting, discoloration, and crumbling of nails, 7) Scalp Psoriasis - thick scales on scalp.
What triggers psoriasis flare-ups?
Common triggers include: 1) Stress - releases inflammatory chemicals, 2) Skin injuries (cuts, sunburn, scratches) - Koebner phenomenon, 3) Infections - especially strep throat, 4) Weather - cold, dry winter worsens symptoms, 5) Certain medications - beta-blockers, lithium, antimalarials, 6) Alcohol and smoking, 7) Obesity, 8) Lack of sunlight (reduces natural Vitamin D). Each person's triggers may be different, so keeping a symptom diary helps identify yours.
Can psoriasis be cured completely?
Yes, psoriasis can achieve long-term remission and many patients experience complete clearing of symptoms with proper treatment. Many patients achieve clear or almost-clear skin for months or even years. Constitutional homeopathic treatment addresses the root cause - the immune system imbalance - rather than just suppressing symptoms. Unlike steroid creams that provide temporary relief, homeopathy works on correcting the underlying immune dysfunction, leading to sustained, lasting results. Many of our patients at the clinic have remained symptom-free for years after completing their treatment course.
At what age does psoriasis usually start?
Psoriasis can start at any age, but there are two peak periods: 1) Early-onset: Between 15-25 years (more common, often more severe, stronger genetic link), 2) Late-onset: Between 50-60 years. About 75% of cases appear before age 40. Psoriasis in children is possible but less common. Early treatment is important to prevent progression to psoriatic arthritis.
What is the difference between psoriasis and eczema?
Key differences: 1) Appearance: Psoriasis has thick, silvery scales on raised red patches; Eczema is more red, inflamed, and crusty, 2) Location: Psoriasis often affects elbows, knees, scalp, lower back; Eczema typically appears in inner elbows, behind knees, 3) Cause: Psoriasis is autoimmune; Eczema is often allergic/atopic, 4) Age: Eczema often starts in childhood and may improve; Psoriasis typically starts later and is lifelong, 5) Itching: Both itch, but eczema itch is usually more intense.
Can psoriasis spread to other parts of my body?
Psoriasis can appear in new areas of your body over time - this is not "spreading" like an infection, but rather the immune system affecting different areas. Common sites include scalp, elbows, knees, lower back, and nails. Triggers like stress, skin injury (Koebner phenomenon), or infections can cause new patches to appear. Good disease management helps prevent new areas from being affected.
Is psoriasis only a skin disease?
No, psoriasis is a systemic inflammatory condition that affects more than just the skin. Up to 30% of psoriasis patients develop Psoriatic Arthritis, causing joint pain and stiffness. People with psoriasis also have higher risks of: cardiovascular disease, diabetes, obesity, metabolic syndrome, depression and anxiety, inflammatory bowel disease, and fatty liver disease. This is why treating the root cause, not just the skin symptoms, is crucial.
Treatment & Medication Questions
इलाज और दवाई से जुड़े सवाल
What are the dangers of using steroid creams for too long?
Long-term steroid cream use causes serious side effects: 1) Skin Thinning (Atrophy) - Research shows 15% skin thinning in just 16 days of potent steroid use, 2) Rebound Flare - When you stop, psoriasis often comes back worse than before, 3) Stretch Marks (Striae) - Permanent damage, 4) Easy Bruising and Tearing, 5) Skin Discoloration. Most concerning: prolonged steroid use can drive inflammation deeper, potentially triggering Psoriatic Arthritis. Use steroids only short-term and under medical supervision.
Can I use coconut oil for psoriasis?
Yes, cold-pressed (Lakdi Ghani) coconut oil is excellent for psoriasis. It contains medium-chain fatty acids with anti-inflammatory and moisturizing properties. It helps: lock in moisture, reduce dryness and flaking, soothe itching, strengthen skin barrier. For scalp psoriasis, it can reduce irritation and strengthen hair. Apply it within 3 minutes of bathing while skin is still damp. However, coconut oil manages symptoms - it doesn't cure psoriasis.
Is Vaseline (Petrolatum) good for psoriasis?
Yes, white petrolatum (Vaseline Pure Jelly) is one of the best moisturizers for psoriasis, recommended by dermatologists. It forms a protective barrier on skin, sealing in moisture and preventing water loss. Research shows it helps repair the compromised skin barrier in psoriasis patients. Pro tips: Use fragrance-free version, apply within 3 minutes of bathing, and it can even enhance effectiveness of phototherapy treatment when applied beforehand.
What is Liquid Paraffin and how does it help?
Liquid Paraffin is an emollient that creates a barrier on skin to prevent moisture loss. Studies show it effectively reduces transepidermal water loss (TEWL) in psoriasis patients. It's especially useful for severe dryness, exfoliative, guttate, or unstable psoriasis. Research found that a cream containing glycerol, vaseline, and liquid paraffin was more effective than vaseline alone in reducing redness, flaking, and improving skin hydration during UVB phototherapy.
How does homeopathy treat psoriasis differently?
Homeopathy treats psoriasis constitutionally - addressing the root cause (immune system imbalance) rather than just suppressing skin symptoms. Key differences: 1) Individualized medicine based on your complete health history, not just skin appearance, 2) No dependency or rebound flares like steroids, 3) Treats associated conditions like stress, digestive issues simultaneously, 4) Aims for long-term remission, not just temporary clearing. Treatment takes longer initially but results are more sustainable.
How long does homeopathic treatment take for psoriasis?
Timeline varies based on severity and how long you've had psoriasis: 1) Recent/Mild cases: Visible improvement in 4-6 weeks, 2) Moderate cases: 2-3 months for significant relief, 3) Chronic cases (years old): 4-6 months for substantial improvement, with continued treatment for sustained remission. Patients who strictly follow dietary restrictions (no alcohol, red meat) typically see 50% faster recovery. Consistency is key - follow treatment for at least 3 months.
Are there any side effects of homeopathic medicines?
Homeopathic medicines are generally very safe with minimal side effects when prescribed by a qualified practitioner. Unlike steroids, they don't cause skin thinning, dependency, or rebound flares. Occasionally, patients may experience temporary mild worsening (homeopathic aggravation) before improvement - this is actually a positive sign. No drug interactions, safe for pregnant women and children (under guidance). Always consult a qualified M.D. Homeopath for proper prescription.
Can I use homeopathy along with my current treatment?
Yes, homeopathy can be used alongside other treatments initially. However, we recommend gradually reducing steroids to avoid rebound effects. Never stop prescribed medications abruptly - work with your homeopath to create a transition plan. Many patients successfully wean off steroids over 2-4 weeks while starting homeopathic treatment. The goal is eventually managing with homeopathy alone for sustained, drug-free remission.
What soaps should I use for psoriasis?
Avoid regular soaps - they strip natural oils and worsen dryness. Use Syndet Bars (synthetic detergent bars) that maintain neutral pH: 1) Dove Sensitive Skin, 2) Cetaphil Gentle Cleansing Bar, 3) Tedibar (for sensitive skin). These cleanse without damaging the skin barrier. Avoid: antibacterial soaps, fragranced soaps, any soap with harsh chemicals. For very dry skin, consider soap-free cleansers or even just lukewarm water on affected areas.
What is phototherapy and is it helpful for psoriasis?
Phototherapy uses controlled UV light to treat psoriasis. Types include: 1) Narrowband UVB (most common) - very effective for widespread psoriasis, 2) Broadband UVB, 3) PUVA (psoralen + UVA). UV light slows rapid skin cell growth and reduces inflammation. Benefits: No internal medications, effective for 70% of patients. Drawbacks: Requires regular clinic visits (2-3 times/week), risk of skin aging and cancer with long-term use. Natural sunlight in moderation also helps (15-20 minutes daily).
Are biologic drugs safe for psoriasis?
Biologics (like adalimumab, secukinumab, ustekinumab) are effective for moderate-to-severe psoriasis by targeting specific immune pathways (IL-17, IL-23, TNF-alpha). They work well but have considerations: 1) Expensive - ₹50,000-2,00,000 per month, 2) Given by injection, 3) Increase infection risk since they suppress immunity, 4) Need regular monitoring, 5) Effects may wear off over time. Many patients explore holistic options like homeopathy before committing to lifetime biologic use.
Should I see a dermatologist or homeopath for psoriasis?
Both have their place. See a dermatologist for: diagnosis confirmation, severe flares needing immediate control, ruling out other conditions. See a homeopath for: long-term constitutional treatment, reducing steroid dependency, sustained remission without side effects. Many patients start with dermatology for diagnosis, then transition to homeopathy for long-term management. The key is finding a qualified specialist (M.D. Dermatology or M.D. Homoeopathy) with psoriasis experience.
Diet & Lifestyle Questions
खान-पान और जीवनशैली से जुड़े सवाल
How should I take turmeric for psoriasis?
Turmeric contains curcumin, a powerful anti-inflammatory that blocks IL-17 - the key chemical driving psoriasis. But the body absorbs only 1% of curcumin alone. THE SECRET: Take turmeric with BLACK PEPPER - piperine in black pepper increases curcumin absorption by 2000%! How to take: Mix ½ spoon turmeric + pinch of black pepper in warm water every morning on empty stomach. Or chew a 1-inch piece of raw turmeric with 2-3 peppercorns.
Why should I avoid alcohol with psoriasis?
Alcohol is a MAJOR trigger for psoriasis flares: 1) Dehydration - alcohol pulls water from your body, making already dry psoriasis skin crack and bleed, 2) Histamine trigger - fermented drinks (beer, wine) are high in histamine, causing intense itching and burning, 3) Liver overload - liver stops processing other toxins to handle alcohol, pushing toxins out through skin, 4) Interferes with medication effectiveness, 5) Research shows psoriasis patients who drink have more severe symptoms. To see real results, stop alcohol completely.
Why is mutton/red meat bad for psoriasis?
Mutton is "raw material" for inflammation: 1) Contains Arachidonic Acid - body converts this into leukotrienes, powerful inflammatory compounds that worsen psoriasis, 2) Takes 48-72 hours to digest, slowing metabolism and harming gut health, 3) High saturated fat increases systemic inflammation. Research shows: eating mutton while taking anti-inflammatory medicine is like pressing brake and accelerator simultaneously! Replace with: fatty fish (Bangda, Salmon), chicken occasionally, or plant proteins (flaxseeds, walnuts).
What foods help reduce psoriasis inflammation?
Anti-inflammatory foods that help: 1) OMEGA-3 RICH: Flaxseeds (Alsi) - 1 spoon roasted daily, Walnuts (Akhrot) - 4-5 daily, Fatty fish - Bangda, Salmon (grilled, not fried), 2) TURMERIC with black pepper, 3) PAPAYA - rich in Vitamins A, C, E for skin healing, 4) GREEN LEAFY vegetables, 5) Berries and colorful vegetables (antioxidants). A 2020 JAAD study showed anti-inflammatory diet reduced psoriasis severity by 30%. Consistency for 3 months is key!
What foods should I strictly avoid?
AVOID these inflammation triggers: 1) ALCOHOL - biggest trigger for flares, 2) MUTTON/RED MEAT - high arachidonic acid, 3) REFINED SUGAR & MAIDA - biscuits, white bread, cakes increase body-wide inflammation. Switch to oats, brown rice, 4) JUNK FOOD & FAST FOOD, 5) DEEP-FRIED foods, 6) DAIRY for some patients (trial elimination), 7) Late-night eating. Replace refined oils (sunflower/soybean) with Mustard oil (Kachi Ghani) or Coconut oil.
Why does psoriasis get worse in winter?
4 scientific reasons for winter flares: 1) LOW HUMIDITY - cold dry air dehydrates skin rapidly, causing cracks and painful bleeding, 2) LACK OF SUNLIGHT - shorter days mean less natural UV and Vitamin D, making IL-17 overactive, 3) HOT WATER BATHS - feel good but strip protective oils, like "petrol on fire" for inflammation, 4) VIRAL INFECTIONS - common colds trigger immune overdrive, increasing IL-17 and TNF-Alpha. Winter care: moisturize aggressively, use humidifier, avoid very hot water.
What is the 3-minute rule for moisturizing?
The MOST IMPORTANT winter tip: Apply moisturizer within 3 MINUTES of stepping out of bath while skin is still damp. This technique: 1) Locks in moisture effectively, 2) Creates protective barrier, 3) Prevents transepidermal water loss (TEWL). After 3 minutes, skin starts losing moisture rapidly to dry air. Best moisturizers: Cold-pressed coconut oil, White Petrolatum (Vaseline), Liquid Paraffin for severe dryness. Always choose FRAGRANCE-FREE products to avoid burning sensation.
How should I bathe if I have psoriasis?
Bathing guidelines for psoriasis: 1) Use LUKEWARM water only - never hot! Hot water strips natural oils, 2) Keep baths SHORT - under 10 minutes, 3) Use Syndet bars (Dove, Cetaphil, Tedibar) instead of regular soap, 4) Pat dry gently - don't rub, 5) Apply moisturizer within 3 minutes while damp, 6) Avoid high-pressure jet sprays - they strip skin of natural oils, 7) Add colloidal oatmeal to bath water for soothing effect. Bathing should hydrate, not dry out your skin.
Does stress really affect psoriasis?
YES, stress is one of the biggest psoriasis triggers! The science: 1) Stress releases cortisol and inflammatory cytokines, 2) These chemicals trigger IL-17 release, 3) IL-17 causes rapid skin cell turnover (3-4 days instead of 28), 4) Result: new flare-ups and worsening of existing patches. Many patients report their first psoriasis outbreak during major life stress. Stress management helps: deep breathing, adequate sleep, regular exercise, meditation. Treating psoriasis with homeopathy also addresses stress-related triggers.
How much water should I drink daily?
Dehydration makes psoriasis MUCH worse - dry skin cracks and flares easily. Drink minimum 8-10 glasses (2-2.5 liters) of water daily. More if you exercise, live in hot climate, or drink tea/coffee (diuretics). Benefits: keeps skin hydrated from inside, helps flush out toxins, improves digestion (gut health affects skin), makes moisturizers more effective. Tip: Start your day with a glass of warm water with turmeric and black pepper.
Is sunlight good or bad for psoriasis?
CONTROLLED sunlight is beneficial! Natural UV helps: 1) Slow rapid skin cell growth, 2) Reduce inflammation, 3) Boost Vitamin D production (helps regulate immune system). Guidelines: 15-20 minutes of morning sunlight (before 10 AM) on affected areas, 3-4 times weekly. AVOID: midday sun (10 AM - 4 PM), sunburn (triggers Koebner phenomenon - new patches on injured skin), excessive sun exposure (increases skin cancer risk). For severe psoriasis, medical phototherapy is more controlled.
Can I eat papaya with psoriasis?
Yes, ripe papaya is excellent for psoriasis! It's rich in Vitamins A, C, and E - all promote skin healing and reduce inflammation. How to eat: One bowl of ripe papaya daily. CAUTIONS: 1) DON'T eat raw/unripe papaya - contains latex that may irritate, 2) AVOID if experiencing intense skin burning or redness (wait for flare to settle), 3) DON'T mix with milk (causes digestive issues). Papaya also improves digestion, and gut health directly affects skin health.
What cooking oils are best for psoriasis?
BEST oils: 1) Mustard Oil (Kachi Ghani/Cold-pressed) - traditionally used, anti-inflammatory, 2) Coconut Oil (Cold-pressed) - excellent for cooking at low-medium heat, 3) Olive Oil (Extra Virgin) - for salads, light cooking. AVOID: Refined oils (Sunflower, Soybean, Vegetable oils) - high in omega-6 which promotes inflammation. The omega-6 to omega-3 ratio matters - most refined oils have 20:1 ratio (inflammatory), while traditional oils are more balanced.
Practical Daily Care Questions
रोज़मर्रा की देखभाल के सवाल
What is the best moisturizer for psoriasis?
Best moisturizers (in order of effectiveness): 1) WHITE PETROLATUM (Vaseline Pure Jelly) - gold standard, forms protective barrier, 2) COLD-PRESSED COCONUT OIL - anti-inflammatory, absorbs well, 3) LIQUID PARAFFIN - for severe dryness, 4) CREAMS with ceramides (Cetaphil, CeraVe). AVOID: Lotions (too much water content, evaporates quickly), Fragranced products (cause burning), Alcohol-based products (dry skin further). Apply thickly at night, wear cotton clothes over it.
How do I manage scalp psoriasis?
Scalp psoriasis tips: 1) Use medicated shampoos with coal tar or salicylic acid (2-3 times/week), 2) For thick scales: Apply coconut oil or olive oil overnight, then shampoo, 3) Don't scratch or pick - causes more inflammation and hair loss, 4) Use gentle brushing to remove loose scales, 5) Avoid very hot water on scalp, 6) See a specialist if over-the-counter treatments don't work. Constitutional homeopathic treatment addresses internal causes, reducing scalp symptoms from inside out.
What should I wear to reduce irritation?
Clothing tips: 1) PREFER: 100% cotton - breathable, soft, absorbs sweat, 2) Wear loose-fitting clothes - tight clothes cause friction and heat, 3) Light colors in summer - dark colors absorb heat, 4) AVOID: Wool and synthetic fabrics - rough, trap heat, cause itching, 5) Wash new clothes before wearing - remove chemicals, 6) Use fragrance-free detergent, 7) Avoid fabric softeners with fragrance. At night, wear cotton after applying moisturizer to lock it in.
When should I see a doctor urgently?
Seek medical help immediately if you experience: 1) Sudden widespread redness covering large body areas (Erythrodermic psoriasis - medical emergency), 2) Pustules (pus-filled bumps) with fever, 3) Joint pain, stiffness, or swelling (Psoriatic arthritis risk - early treatment prevents permanent damage), 4) Signs of infection (increased redness, warmth, pus, fever), 5) Severe symptoms affecting daily life, 6) No improvement after 3 months of treatment. Don't wait if symptoms are severe or spreading rapidly.
What is psoriatic arthritis and how do I know if I have it?
Psoriatic Arthritis (PsA) is joint inflammation that develops in up to 30% of psoriasis patients. Warning signs: 1) Joint pain, stiffness (especially morning stiffness lasting >30 minutes), 2) Swollen fingers or toes ("sausage digits"), 3) Heel or foot pain, 4) Lower back pain, 5) Nail changes (pitting, separation from nail bed). PsA can appear before, during, or after skin symptoms. IMPORTANT: Early treatment prevents permanent joint damage! If you have these symptoms, consult a rheumatologist or homeopath experienced in PsA.
Can exercise help psoriasis?
Yes, regular exercise helps psoriasis by: 1) Reducing inflammation body-wide, 2) Managing stress (major trigger), 3) Maintaining healthy weight (obesity worsens psoriasis), 4) Improving blood circulation and skin health, 5) Releasing endorphins (natural mood elevators). Best exercises: Walking, swimming, yoga, cycling. Tips: Wear breathable cotton clothes, shower soon after exercise to remove sweat, moisturize after. Avoid exercises that cause excessive skin friction or injury (risk of Koebner phenomenon).
How do I handle the psychological impact of psoriasis?
Psoriasis significantly impacts mental health - anxiety and depression are common. Coping strategies: 1) EDUCATE yourself and others that it's not contagious, 2) Join support groups - connect with others who understand, 3) Don't hide - isolation worsens depression, 4) Seek professional help if feeling depressed or anxious, 5) Focus on overall health, not just skin appearance, 6) Practice stress management - meditation, deep breathing. Remember: psoriasis doesn't define you, and effective treatment exists. Constitutional homeopathy addresses both physical symptoms and emotional aspects.
Can I swim with psoriasis?
Yes, swimming is possible with precautions: 1) Apply thick layer of petrolatum BEFORE swimming to protect skin from chlorine, 2) Shower IMMEDIATELY after - chlorine is very drying, 3) Apply moisturizer within 3 minutes of shower, 4) Prefer saltwater pools or natural water over heavily chlorinated pools, 5) Check if your scales are healed - open sores risk infection. Swimming actually helps some patients - the gentle exercise and sun exposure can be beneficial. Don't avoid activities you enjoy!
Does psoriasis affect pregnancy?
Important information for women: 1) Psoriasis often IMPROVES during pregnancy (up to 40-60% of women report improvement) due to hormone changes, 2) May FLARE after delivery when hormones normalize, 3) Some treatments are NOT safe during pregnancy - always inform your doctor, 4) Psoriasis doesn't affect fertility, 5) There's a genetic risk of passing to child, but not guaranteed, 6) Homeopathic treatment is generally safe during pregnancy (under qualified guidance). Plan pregnancy with your doctor to adjust medications safely.
How can I remove psoriasis scales safely?
Safe scale removal: 1) SOAK affected area in lukewarm water for 15 mins to soften scales, 2) Apply oil (coconut, olive) and leave for a few hours or overnight, 3) Use GENTLE brushing or soft washcloth - never pick or scratch, 4) Products with salicylic acid (2-3%) help dissolve scales, 5) Don't remove scales forcefully - causes bleeding and potential scarring. For scalp: oil treatment overnight, then gentle combing in morning before washing. Forced removal triggers Koebner phenomenon (new patches on injured skin).
Specific Concerns & Advanced Questions
विशेष चिंताएं और उन्नत सवाल
What is IL-17 and why is it important in psoriasis?
IL-17 (Interleukin-17) is a key inflammatory chemical in psoriasis. The science: 1) Overactive immune system releases excessive IL-17, 2) IL-17 signals skin cells to divide rapidly (every 3-4 days instead of 28-30), 3) This rapid buildup causes thick scales and plaques, 4) IL-17 also causes redness and inflammation. Why it matters: Modern treatments target IL-17, and natural compounds like curcumin (turmeric) also block IL-17. Reducing IL-17 naturally through diet, stress management, and treatment is key to controlling psoriasis.
Why do lotions not work well for psoriasis?
Lotions are less effective because: 1) HIGH WATER CONTENT - water evaporates quickly, leaving skin dry again, 2) THIN CONSISTENCY - doesn't form protective barrier, 3) Often contain FRAGRANCES and ALCOHOL - irritate sensitive psoriasis skin, causing burning. Better alternatives in order: 1) Ointments (petrolatum, coconut oil) - most occlusive, best for severe dryness, 2) Creams (thicker, less water) - good balance, 3) Lotions - only for very mild cases or hairy areas. For psoriasis, think THICK and GREASY, not light and cosmetic.
Can I get a tattoo if I have psoriasis?
Tattoos are risky with psoriasis due to Koebner phenomenon - new psoriasis patches can develop at sites of skin injury. Considerations: 1) Psoriasis may appear in the tattooed area, 2) Don't tattoo over active psoriasis patches, 3) Risk is lower when psoriasis is in remission, 4) Discuss with your dermatologist first, 5) If you proceed, choose an experienced artist, ensure sterile conditions. Some patients tattoo successfully in remission, but there's always a risk. Similar caution applies to piercings.
Is nail psoriasis treatable?
Nail psoriasis (pitting, discoloration, crumbling, separation from bed) is treatable but takes patience - nails grow slowly. Treatment includes: 1) Topical treatments (steroids, vitamin D analogues) under nails, 2) Injections into nail bed for severe cases, 3) Oral/systemic treatments for widespread nail involvement, 4) Constitutional homeopathy addresses internal causes. Tips: Keep nails short, avoid trauma, don't pick at cuticles, wear gloves for wet work. Improvement takes 6-12 months since fingernails take 6 months, toenails 12-18 months to fully regrow.
Does losing weight help psoriasis?
Yes, weight loss significantly helps psoriasis! The science: 1) Fat tissue is metabolically active - releases inflammatory cytokines, 2) Obesity is linked to more severe psoriasis and poorer treatment response, 3) Studies show weight loss of even 5-10% improves psoriasis symptoms, 4) Weight loss improves metabolic health, reducing cardiovascular risk (already elevated in psoriasis). Approach: Combine anti-inflammatory diet (avoid alcohol, red meat, refined sugar) with regular exercise. Many patients achieving healthy weight report fewer flares.
What is the Koebner phenomenon?
Koebner phenomenon is when new psoriasis patches appear at sites of skin injury. Common triggers: 1) Cuts, scratches, scrapes, 2) Sunburn, 3) Surgical incisions, 4) Tattoos or piercings, 5) Insect bites, 6) Friction from tight clothes, 7) Scratching existing patches. Prevention: Protect skin from injury, treat wounds carefully, don't scratch, avoid unnecessary skin trauma. If you notice new patches appearing after injury, it's a sign your psoriasis is active and may need treatment adjustment.
Can children get psoriasis?
Yes, children can develop psoriasis, though it's less common than in adults. About 1/3 of psoriasis patients develop symptoms before age 20. In children: 1) Guttate psoriasis is common (small dot-like spots), often triggered by strep throat, 2) May be mistaken for diaper rash, cradle cap, or eczema, 3) Can significantly impact self-esteem and school performance. Treatment: Gentle approaches preferred - moisturizers, limited steroid use, phototherapy if needed. Homeopathy is especially suitable for children - no side effects, addresses root cause.
How do I know if my treatment is working?
Signs of improvement: 1) LESS ITCHING - often first sign of improvement, 2) REDUCTION in redness and inflammation, 3) THINNER plaques - scales become less thick, 4) SMALLER patch size, 5) LONGER time between flares, 6) Less need for moisturizers, 7) Improvement in associated symptoms (joint pain, fatigue). Timeline: With homeopathy, mild cases improve in 4-6 weeks, chronic cases take 3-4 months. Keep a photo diary to track visual changes. Don't expect overnight results - consistent treatment works!
Why do homeopathy patients heal 50% faster when following diet restrictions?
Diet dramatically impacts recovery speed because: 1) ALCOHOL and RED MEAT are direct inflammation triggers - they release IL-17 and arachidonic acid, 2) While medicine works to calm the immune system, inflammatory foods keep "adding fuel to fire", 3) It's like pressing brake and accelerator simultaneously, 4) When both medicine AND diet work together, inflammation reduces rapidly. Clinical observation: Patients strictly avoiding alcohol, mutton, and processed foods consistently show 50% faster improvement than those who don't follow dietary guidelines.
Can I lead a normal life with psoriasis?
Absolutely YES! Millions of people with psoriasis lead full, active, successful lives. Keys to living well: 1) GET PROPER TREATMENT - don't just manage symptoms, address root cause, 2) FOLLOW LIFESTYLE CHANGES - diet, stress management, sleep, 3) DON'T HIDE - educate others that it's not contagious, 4) STAY ACTIVE - exercise, travel, socialize normally, 5) MENTAL HEALTH matters - seek support if needed, 6) MONITOR for complications (joint symptoms). With proper management, psoriasis becomes a manageable chronic condition, not a life-limiting disease.
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Dr. Shadab Khan
M.D. (Homoeopathy) | Founder - PCM Protocol™
Reg. No. 54130 | Maharashtra Council of Homoeopathy | 15+ Years Experience
Medical Disclaimer: Results may vary from person to person. The information provided on this website is for educational purposes only. Please consult Dr. Shadab Khan for personalized diagnosis and treatment.