This is an easy read and sheds some light on common questions about Psoriasis, what it is, what are common triggers, treatment, relationships, etc
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Sunday, July 5, 2009
Tuesday, June 30, 2009
Going banana's over psoriasis
So there has been some speculation on weather banana skins may provide a cheap drug free alternative to Psoriasis. After some research, there is mixed results from people trying the natural treatment, those who have tried this treatment say it shows results within 1 week, skeptics say it must be other influential factors such as stress, placebo effect or just attention to the disease.
As listed on a pretty bogus looking website...
Here is the program:
After bathing/showering (we like to suggest you use a 'clean soap' like glycerine soap) you use a fresh banana peel!
Yep!! The same bananas you can buy at any store for pennies a pound....
Just peel a banana, and rub the inner soft skin (the one next to the banana) on your patch of psoriasis.
The peel is the scrub. Rub it in good, and store the peel in a zip-lock bag, in a dry, cool place for the next use...makeing sure that most of the air is out of the zip lock.
Out of one banana we have had at least 3 applications before another banana peel is needed.
Later, once your skin has absorbed the oils from the peel - we suggest you use a common gentle skin creame to help keep the psoriasis patch soft. Adrian uses 'Sween' creame.
Other common creams and lotions often have dyes and perfumes etc. that will make the psoriasis sting....so a simple cream with vitamins and maybe aloe is preferable.
Treat at least once and day and the nasty, white flakey skin will soften up and eventually you will see a miraclous thing - pink healthy skin emerging....
Don't forget to thank the sponsors :)
As listed on a pretty bogus looking website...
Here is the program:
After bathing/showering (we like to suggest you use a 'clean soap' like glycerine soap) you use a fresh banana peel!
Yep!! The same bananas you can buy at any store for pennies a pound....
Just peel a banana, and rub the inner soft skin (the one next to the banana) on your patch of psoriasis.
The peel is the scrub. Rub it in good, and store the peel in a zip-lock bag, in a dry, cool place for the next use...makeing sure that most of the air is out of the zip lock.
Out of one banana we have had at least 3 applications before another banana peel is needed.
Later, once your skin has absorbed the oils from the peel - we suggest you use a common gentle skin creame to help keep the psoriasis patch soft. Adrian uses 'Sween' creame.
Other common creams and lotions often have dyes and perfumes etc. that will make the psoriasis sting....so a simple cream with vitamins and maybe aloe is preferable.
Treat at least once and day and the nasty, white flakey skin will soften up and eventually you will see a miraclous thing - pink healthy skin emerging....
Don't forget to thank the sponsors :)
Sunday, June 28, 2009
Does Cameron Diaz have psoriasis?
I was surfing the other day and fond an article in the 'Times of India' site that stated the well known actress was suffering a mild case of psoriasis.
Apparently spots of psoriasis can be seen on her elbows. We will keep you posted on treatments used by the star.
Don't forget to thank the sponsors :)
Apparently spots of psoriasis can be seen on her elbows. We will keep you posted on treatments used by the star.
Hollywood actress Cameron Diaz, who had acne problems in the past, is now battling a nasty case of psoriasis just below her right elbow,according to a report.
The itch caused by the pesky form of non-contagious inflammation doesn't clear easily and can come back, according to dermatologists.
Celebrity skin expert Vail Reese has been scrutinising Cameron’s scabs and pimples for years and he insists the ringworm on her arm is just the latest in a long line of pigment problems for the actress, reports contactmusic.com .
"Though she is not my patient, it looks she has a form of psoriasis, that's showing some clearance in the centre portion... After battling acne for years, yet another skin condition to deal with! She has also suffered with facial pigmentation issues and sun overexposure," Reese was quoted as saying.
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Tuesday, June 23, 2009
Again on the fish oil band wagon
I was taking 4 fish oil supplements per day and after a course of 100 (aprox 3 weeks), I stopped taking the supplements for 3 days and noticed an increase in swelling and itchiness of psoriases affected areas. When the regime of 4 supplements a day started again it quickly reduced the swelling and itchiness.
This is not a cure on its own, but it I have noticed a great difference in general skin comfort, and areas which I worked on with moisturiser and a very small amount of steroid cream (those areas healed) have not ruptured as they normally would have after discontinuing topical (only) treatment.
Monday, June 15, 2009
Fish oil and its effects on psoriasis
On the topic of fishy cures, I have been taking fish oil (omega 3) supplement capsules for approximately 4 weeks. I have noticed a drop in flare ups and limited irritation (which is normally much worse during winter). I was able to clear up one spot on my leg using a combination of taking fish oil supplements, soaking, moisturiser and only 2 applications of steroid cream.
I have continued with fish oil only and at this stage the spot has not returned.
cool huh?
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I have continued with fish oil only and at this stage the spot has not returned.
cool huh?
Don't forget to thank the sponsors :)
Doctorfish
Fish cures for psoriasis... I think not, but it it would be very useful for ongoing management of the psoriasis condition. I will be in singapore in july and will try this treatment.
http://www.psoriasisfishcure.com/
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Recently, a new alternative method of psoriasis treatment is with the use of live fish called "Doctorfish" (or Garra rufa). This practice of using fish to treat itchy skin was first used in the small towns of Kangal and Sivas in Turkey where they are largely found in the area. The spa at Kangal has been a popular psoriasis treatment centre since 1988.People with this skin disorder have been flocking here to have their infected skin nibbled at by the doctor fish. These doctor fish live and breed in outdoor pools of some Turkish spas but now they are pretty popular in the Asian countries like Japan, Taiwan and most recently, Singapore. These fishes live in warm waters of high temperatures of around 36C. The water condition does not produce enough nutrients for the fish with voracious appetite so they feed well on dead scabby skin of psoriasis sufferers. These fishes will not nibble their healthy skin which will be left to grow. The saliva in the mouths of the doctor fish is the vital element in the treatment . In addition, the selenium- rich waters of the spa are also helpful in the treatment of psoriasis too. However this type of treatment can provide temporary relief only but is not a cure for the skin disorder. It is reported by psoriasis patients that it does help and thus doctor fish spas have sprouted in many countries like Japan, Germany or Singapore.http://www.garrarufa.com/psoriasis-and-its-treatment-with-garra-rufa-fish/
http://www.psoriasisfishcure.com/
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Monday, June 8, 2009
Psoriasis treatment listed on PBS - Humira
The drug Humira, is shown to be effective in blocking parts of an immune system process responsible for Psoriasis has been listed on the PBS in Australia. This drug is designed for people with moderate to severe levels of Psoriasis.
To obtain this drug you must visit your dermatologist for advise regarding to whether this product is right for you.
After searcing the Humira website I found.
Pros...
7 out of 10 adults taking HUMIRA saw 75% skin clearance and 6 out of 10 patients had clear or almost clear skin at 16 weeks. Individual results may vary.
HUMIRA is available by prescription only.
Cons...
HUMIRA can lower the ability of the immune system to fight infections. Serious infections have happened in patients taking HUMIRA. These infections include tuberculosis (TB) and infections caused by viruses, fungi, or bacteria that have spread throughout the body. Some of these serious infections have been fatal. Patients treated with HUMIRA also may be at risk for other serious side effects including certain types of cancers, allergic reactions, hepatitis B virus reactivation, nervous system problems, blood problems, heart failure, and certain immune reactions, including a lupus-like syndrome.
The use of HUMIRA in moderate to severe chronic plaque psoriasis beyond one year has not been evaluated in controlled clinical studies.
If you have used this drug for your condition please comment on this post to let us know how it has affected you.
Many thanks.
Don't forget to thank the sponsors :)
To obtain this drug you must visit your dermatologist for advise regarding to whether this product is right for you.
After searcing the Humira website I found.
Pros...
7 out of 10 adults taking HUMIRA saw 75% skin clearance and 6 out of 10 patients had clear or almost clear skin at 16 weeks. Individual results may vary.
HUMIRA is available by prescription only.
Cons...
HUMIRA can lower the ability of the immune system to fight infections. Serious infections have happened in patients taking HUMIRA. These infections include tuberculosis (TB) and infections caused by viruses, fungi, or bacteria that have spread throughout the body. Some of these serious infections have been fatal. Patients treated with HUMIRA also may be at risk for other serious side effects including certain types of cancers, allergic reactions, hepatitis B virus reactivation, nervous system problems, blood problems, heart failure, and certain immune reactions, including a lupus-like syndrome.
The use of HUMIRA in moderate to severe chronic plaque psoriasis beyond one year has not been evaluated in controlled clinical studies.
If you have used this drug for your condition please comment on this post to let us know how it has affected you.
Many thanks.
Don't forget to thank the sponsors :)
Thursday, May 21, 2009
the heartbreak of psoriasis
The phrase "the heartbreak of psoriasis" is often used both seriously and ironically to describe the emotional impact of the disease. It may include both the effect of having a chronic uncomfortable disorder and the social effects of being self conscious of one's appearance. The term can be found in various advertisements for topical and other treatments; conversely, it has been used to mock the tendency of advertisers to exaggerate (or even fabricate) aspects of a malady for financial gain. While many products today use the phrase in their advertising, it originated in a 1960s advertising campaign for Tegrin, a coal tar-based ointment.
Wednesday, May 20, 2009
Phototherapy with psoriasis
I found some information on phototherapy.
The usual starting dose is 10mg(very conservative) and the light exposure
modified by skin type but I will usually begin at 10 minutes of 11-2 sunshine or
20 minutes of after 4pm-using this hour minimized the UVB effects and emphasizes
the UVA. These times would have to be conservatised for the tropics of course. I
subscribe to the usual eye and skin protection regimes after tx. With tanning
beds, start out at 1/3 to 1/2 the time recommended by the owner for tanning and increase 5 min a week as tolerated. With sunlight I increase 10 minutes a week to a max of 30 minutes (45 after 4).
If you have tried phototherapy, please comment on this article.
The usual starting dose is 10mg(very conservative) and the light exposure
modified by skin type but I will usually begin at 10 minutes of 11-2 sunshine or
20 minutes of after 4pm-using this hour minimized the UVB effects and emphasizes
the UVA. These times would have to be conservatised for the tropics of course. I
subscribe to the usual eye and skin protection regimes after tx. With tanning
beds, start out at 1/3 to 1/2 the time recommended by the owner for tanning and increase 5 min a week as tolerated. With sunlight I increase 10 minutes a week to a max of 30 minutes (45 after 4).
If you have tried phototherapy, please comment on this article.
Friday, May 8, 2009
living with Psoriasis
It is ugly, sore, annoying, inconvenient, a waste of money, time, energy, emotion and perfectly good skin. Sound familiar?
There are some things that can be done about this skin condition (some of which cost alot of money), but I will describe in this blog the tips and treatment options I have paid 1000's for. Some work, some dont, some I have modified, some you will have to modify depending on the type of psoriasis you have and the severity.
A little about me, I am healthy, hard working male mid 20s, generally eat well, at the correct times, I don't mind a few beers on the weekend (but who doesn't).I love walks on the beach blah blah blah.... overall pretty average.
Lets get started...
First off we will describe the clinical picture.
"There are five types of psoriasis: plaque, guttate, inverse, pustular and erythrodermic. The most common form, plaque psoriasis, appears as raised, red patches or lesions covered with a silvery white buildup of dead skin cells, called scale. Psoriasis is often found on the head, elbows, knees, groin, torso and finger nails. Psoriasis can occur on any part of the body and is associated with other serious health conditions, such as diabetes, heart disease and depression."
Treatment prescribed by my gp was a topical steroid cream 'Elocon Cream 0.1%' 'Mometasone furoate 1mg/g', which is to be applied to the affected areas sparingly as required.
This is an affective temporary treatment for the psoriasis, after application the itching stops and the lesion subsides, for me, about 1 to 5 days. But I am worried about the effects on my skin after prolonged use, as I was told that it may weaken the skin over years and may crack.
This calls for some other treatment investigations. Stay tuned as I will bring you the real life story of living with Psoriasis.
Don't forget to thank the sponsors :)
There are some things that can be done about this skin condition (some of which cost alot of money), but I will describe in this blog the tips and treatment options I have paid 1000's for. Some work, some dont, some I have modified, some you will have to modify depending on the type of psoriasis you have and the severity.
A little about me, I am healthy, hard working male mid 20s, generally eat well, at the correct times, I don't mind a few beers on the weekend (but who doesn't).I love walks on the beach blah blah blah.... overall pretty average.
Lets get started...
First off we will describe the clinical picture.
"There are five types of psoriasis: plaque, guttate, inverse, pustular and erythrodermic. The most common form, plaque psoriasis, appears as raised, red patches or lesions covered with a silvery white buildup of dead skin cells, called scale. Psoriasis is often found on the head, elbows, knees, groin, torso and finger nails. Psoriasis can occur on any part of the body and is associated with other serious health conditions, such as diabetes, heart disease and depression."
Treatment prescribed by my gp was a topical steroid cream 'Elocon Cream 0.1%' 'Mometasone furoate 1mg/g', which is to be applied to the affected areas sparingly as required.
This is an affective temporary treatment for the psoriasis, after application the itching stops and the lesion subsides, for me, about 1 to 5 days. But I am worried about the effects on my skin after prolonged use, as I was told that it may weaken the skin over years and may crack.
This calls for some other treatment investigations. Stay tuned as I will bring you the real life story of living with Psoriasis.
Don't forget to thank the sponsors :)
Tuesday, May 5, 2009
Psoriasis explained
Psoriasis is a non-contagious skin condition. It causes red, scaly patches to develop on the skin. These areas are most common on the scalp, elbows and knees, but can occur on any areas of the body. Skin affected by psoriasis grows much quicker than normal skin. There is no cure for psoriasis but it can be controlled with treatment.
A variety of physical effects
Symptoms of psoriasis vary from person to person. The effects may include:
* Red scaly patches on scalp, elbows, knees and other parts of the body
* Itchiness - however, many people do not feel itchy at all
* Shedding of scales of skin.
Types of psoriasis
* Plaque psoriasis - most common form
* Guttate psoriasis - found mostly in children
* Flexural psoriasis - affects body folds and genital area
* Erythrodermic psoriasis - severe form requiring hospitalisation
* Napkin psoriasis.
* Pustular psoriasis - a more severe form of psoriasis which can be painful.
Psoriasis can cause arthritis
For an unknown reason, psoriasis can cause a form of arthritis known as psoriatic arthritis. Symptoms include:
* Discomfort, throbbing or swelling in one or many joints
* Tenderness in any joint
* Pain caused by inflammation in the joints which stimulates nerve endings.
The joints that are most likely to be affected are:
* The last joint in the fingers or toes
* Sacrum (lower back), wrists, knees or ankles.
Causes are unknown
The cause of psoriasis is unknown; however it’s likely that a tendency to psoriasis is inherited because it seems to run in families.
Shocks and infections can trigger attacks
An accident, nervous shock, streptococcal throat or a bacterial, viral or fungal skin infection can make psoriasis appear.
Creams and medicines can relieve symptoms
Moisturising
It is very important to keep your skin moisturised as dry skin can lead to scratching. You should:
* Use a soap substitute
* Use protective gloves
* Keep fingernails and toenails short to prevent damage to the skin from scratching.
Medicines and creams
Doctors may prescribe a range of treatments including:
* Medications such as Methotrexate, Neotigason, Cyclosporin and Calcipotriol
* Ultraviolet light and PUVA Phototherapy
* Coal tar preparations, cortisone and other emollients.
Where to get help
* Your doctor
* A specialist dermatologist (your doctor can refer you)
* Psoriasis Australia Inc.
Things to remember
* Psoriasis is not contagious
* There is no known cure for psoriasis - but it can be controlled with treatment.
From http://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au
A variety of physical effects
Symptoms of psoriasis vary from person to person. The effects may include:
* Red scaly patches on scalp, elbows, knees and other parts of the body
* Itchiness - however, many people do not feel itchy at all
* Shedding of scales of skin.
Types of psoriasis
* Plaque psoriasis - most common form
* Guttate psoriasis - found mostly in children
* Flexural psoriasis - affects body folds and genital area
* Erythrodermic psoriasis - severe form requiring hospitalisation
* Napkin psoriasis.
* Pustular psoriasis - a more severe form of psoriasis which can be painful.
Psoriasis can cause arthritis
For an unknown reason, psoriasis can cause a form of arthritis known as psoriatic arthritis. Symptoms include:
* Discomfort, throbbing or swelling in one or many joints
* Tenderness in any joint
* Pain caused by inflammation in the joints which stimulates nerve endings.
The joints that are most likely to be affected are:
* The last joint in the fingers or toes
* Sacrum (lower back), wrists, knees or ankles.
Causes are unknown
The cause of psoriasis is unknown; however it’s likely that a tendency to psoriasis is inherited because it seems to run in families.
Shocks and infections can trigger attacks
An accident, nervous shock, streptococcal throat or a bacterial, viral or fungal skin infection can make psoriasis appear.
Creams and medicines can relieve symptoms
Moisturising
It is very important to keep your skin moisturised as dry skin can lead to scratching. You should:
* Use a soap substitute
* Use protective gloves
* Keep fingernails and toenails short to prevent damage to the skin from scratching.
Medicines and creams
Doctors may prescribe a range of treatments including:
* Medications such as Methotrexate, Neotigason, Cyclosporin and Calcipotriol
* Ultraviolet light and PUVA Phototherapy
* Coal tar preparations, cortisone and other emollients.
Where to get help
* Your doctor
* A specialist dermatologist (your doctor can refer you)
* Psoriasis Australia Inc.
Things to remember
* Psoriasis is not contagious
* There is no known cure for psoriasis - but it can be controlled with treatment.
From http://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au
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