Squamous lichen is one of the most common dermatological diseases. It is known that about 5% of people on the planet are familiar with the symptoms of skin psoriasis of the first (scaly) stage. The cause of this disease lies in the inadequate reaction of the organism to external stimuli. And, if in a healthy body the duration of the period during which skin cells are renewed is about 3-4 weeks, in patients with this pathology it is reduced to 4-5 days.
Causes and signs of the initial stage of psoriasis
To date, the reasons why psoriasis appears at an early stage have not yet been fully elucidated. However, the trigger for the disease is believed to be severe stress. Also, among the possible reasons, experts distinguish the following:
- transferred infections;
- response to cold climates;
- some eating habits (abuse of spicy dishes, marinades);
- unhealthy lifestyle (especially alcoholism);
- hereditary factor.
Symptoms of psoriasis of the first stage
It is important to recognize psoriasis at an early stage. After all, the timely start of treatment makes it possible to avoid deterioration of the condition and the spread of the disease to other organs.
The first signs of the disease can be seen on the elbows. Early stage psoriasis is more like a small rash, a little later small nodules form. After a while, they grow, connecting with each other. Plaques of various sizes then appear on the affected areas of the skin. They turn white and peel off.
Is psoriasis itchy in the initial stage? Dermatologists often give a positive answer to this question. Especially annoying itching where the accumulation of plaques is greater:
- in the elbows;
- on knees;
- in places where the integrity of the skin is broken (there are cuts or cracks).
The first signs of the disease often appear in places that are constantly in contact with clothing. This is especially evident in children. That is why psoriasis in the first stage is often confused with manifestations of diathesis or allergies to products used in washing. This is the most dangerous mistake. After all, treatment started when the rash first appears is much more effective than therapy prescribed later.
Experts distinguish three main signs that accurately indicate an autoimmune problem and do not allow it to be confused with another skin disease:
- A stain that looks like crushed stearin. It occurs due to exfoliation of scales.
- The appearance of the so-called terminal film under the scales.
- The appearance of bruises on the skin (dew drops of blood).
In the early stage of psoriasis, the symptoms (skin rashes) disappear after about 2 months. If they are not treated, after a while they will reappear, but in a much larger volume.
Treatment of the initial stage of psoriasis.
Doctors approach the treatment of the initial form of the disease carefully. And, if two decades ago, at the first signs, quite serious drugs, including hormonal and cytostatic drugs, were often prescribed, modern tactics are aimed at eliminating the cause of the exacerbation: patients are advised to avoid stress, review nutrition, lead a measured lifestyle. To eliminate unpleasant symptoms, specialists prescribe non-hormonal topical agents, including ointments, gels, shampoos prepared on the basis of:
- birch, pine or juniper tar;
- fat;
- Petroleum;
- anti-inflammatory drugs (salicylic ointment and zinc).
With psoriasis of the initial stage, treatment also involves the use of fatty creams enriched with vitamins A and E. Ointments containing hormonal agents are used in cases where the use of non-hormonal topical agents does not bring relief.
Also, a good effect is observed in psoriasis at the initial stage after applying a course of physiotherapy procedures:
- electrosleep, which has a sedative effect;
- ultraviolet irradiation with waves of various lengths (311-312 nm, as well as 310-340 nm);
- ultrasonic exposure to vibrations with a wide frequency range (800-3000 kHz);
- laser therapy;
- cryotherapy
Medications and procedures used to treat the initial stage of psoriasis, the doctor prescribes individually, focusing on the severity of symptoms, the patient's age and the body's response to therapy.
home treatment
To relieve the condition in the early stage of psoriasis, home treatment should be combined with a prescribed doctor. For most patients, dermatologists recommend starting with a change in diet, completely abandoning fatty meats, smoked meats, hot spices, coffee, chocolate, and alcohol. You should diversify the diet with fresh fruits and vegetables (especially leafy), sour milk and fish.
In order not to further irritate the skin, it is recommended to use baby soap or washing tar. Baths with collections of medicinal herbs (tricolor violets, succession, celandine, hops and others) and sea salt help well.
Experts also recommend not to refuse trips to resorts where mud treatment is practiced, to the sea coast. At the same time, you should not choose the hottest months of the year to relax. At moderate temperatures, spa treatment, mud applications, and seawater baths provide a long-lasting effect.
conclusion
When wondering if it is possible to cure psoriasis at the initial stage, there is no doubt. Seeing a doctor in a timely manner, there is a high probability that you will forget about the problem for a long time.