Lichen scales are one of the most common dermatological diseases. It is known that about 5% of people on the planet are already familiar with the symptoms of first stage (scaly) skin psoriasis. The cause of the disease lies in the body’s inadequate response when exposed to external stimuli. And, if in a healthy body the period of time during which skin cells are renewed is about 3-4 weeks, then in patients with this pathology it is reduced to 4-5 days.
Causes and signs of early stage psoriasis
To date, the causes of psoriasis appearing at an early stage have not been fully elucidated. However, it is believed that the trigger that leads to this disease is severe stress. In addition, among the possible causes, experts distinguish the following:
- transmitted infections;
- response to cold climates;
- some eating habits (abuse of spicy dishes, marinades);
- unhealthy lifestyle (especially alcohol addiction);
- hereditary factors.
Symptoms of first degree psoriasis
It is important to recognize psoriasis at an early stage. After all, the timely initiation of treatment makes it possible to prevent deterioration of the condition and the spread of the disease to other organs.
Early signs of the disease can be seen on the elbow. Psoriasis in the early stages is more like a small rash, a little later small nodules form. After a while, they grow, connecting with each other. Then plaques of various sizes appear on the affected skin area. They turn white and flake off.
Is psoriasis itchy in the early stages? Dermatologists often give a positive answer to this question. Particularly annoying itching where plaque accumulation is greatest:
- on the elbow;
- on the knee;
- in places where the integrity of the skin is damaged (there are cuts or cracks).
Early signs of the disease often appear in places that are constantly touched by clothing. This is especially noticeable in children. That is why psoriasis in the first stage is often confused with the manifestation of diathesis or allergy to products used in washing. This is the most dangerous mistake. After all, treatment starting when the first rash appears is 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 other skin diseases:
- Stains that look like crushed stearin. It occurs due to exfoliation of the scales.
- Appearance of the so -called terminal film under scale.
- Appearance of bruises on the skin (drops of blood dew).
In the early stages of psoriasis, the symptoms (rash) disappear after about 2 months. If left untreated, then after a while they will reappear, but in greater numbers.
Early stage treatment of psoriasis
Doctors approach the treatment of early forms of the disease with caution. And, if two decades ago, at the first signs, relatively serious medications were often prescribed, including hormonal and cytostatic medications, then modern tactics aimed at eliminating the cause of the severity-patients were advised to avoid stress, review diet, lead ameasured 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;
- gray;
- oil;
- anti-inflammatory drugs (salicylic and zinc ointment).
With early -stage psoriasis, 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.
In addition, a favorable effect in psoriasis in the early stages is observed after using a course of physiotherapy procedures:
- electrosleep, which has a sedative effect;
- ultraviolet irradiation with wavelengths of various lengths (311–312 nm, as well as 310–340 nm);
- ultrasonic exposure to vibrations with a large frequency range (800-3000 kHz);
- laser therapy;
- cryotherapy.
Medications and procedures used to treat the early stages of psoriasis, doctors prescribe individually, focusing on the severity of symptoms, the age of the patient and the body's response to therapy.
Treatment at home
To alleviate the condition in the early stages of psoriasis, treatment at home 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 your diet with fresh fruits and vegetables (especially leafy), sour milk and fish products.
To no longer irritate the skin, it is recommended to use baby soap or tar for washing. Bathing with a collection of medicinal herbs (tricolor violet, succession, celandine, hops etc. ) and sea salt helps well.
Experts also recommend not to refuse a trip to a resort where mud treatments are practiced, to the sea shore. At the same time, you shouldn’t choose the hottest month of the year to relax. At moderate temperatures, spa treatments, mud swabs and seawater baths provide lasting effects.
Conclusion
When wondering whether it is possible to cure psoriasis at an early stage, there is no doubt. By consulting a doctor in a timely manner, there is a high probability of forgetting about the problem for a long time.