Scale 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 first stage skin psoriasis (scales). The cause of this disease lies in the inadequate reaction of the body when exposed to external stimuli. And, if in a healthy body the duration of the period during which the 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 the initial stage of psoriasis
To date, the reasons why psoriasis appears at an early stage have not yet been fully elucidated. However, it is believed that the cause leading to the disease is severe stress. In addition, among the possible reasons, experts distinguish the following:
- transferred infections;
- reaction to cold climate;
- some eating habits (abuse of spicy dishes, marinades);
- unhealthy lifestyle (especially alcoholism);
- hereditary factor.
Symptoms of first stage psoriasis
It is important to recognize psoriasis at an early stage. After all, timely initiation of treatment makes it possible to avoid worsening 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. Then plaques of various sizes appear on the affected areas of the skin. They are bleached and removed.
Does psoriasis itch in the initial stage? Dermatologists often give a positive answer to this question. Particularly annoying itching where the accumulation of plaque is greatest:
- in the elbows;
- on the 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 affected by clothing. This is especially evident in children. This 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 with the onset of the first rash is much more effective than the 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. Occurs due to exfoliation of scales.
- The emergence of the so-called terminal film under the scales.
- The appearance of bruises on the skin (drops of blood dew).
In the initial stage of psoriasis, the symptoms (rashes) disappear after about 2 months. If left untreated, then after a while they will reappear, but in a much larger volume.
Treatment of the initial stage of psoriasis
Doctors carefully approach the treatment of the initial form of the disease. And, if two decades ago, at the first signs, quite serious medications were often prescribed, including hormonal drugs and cytostatics, then modern tactics aim to eliminate the cause of deterioration - patients are advised to avoid stress, review food, lead a waysober living. To eliminate the unpleasant symptoms, specialists prescribe topical non-hormonal agents, including ointments, gels, shampoos prepared on the basis of:
- birch, pine or juniper pitch;
- fat;
- oil;
- anti-inflammatory drugs (salicylic ointment and zinc).
With early stage psoriasis, treatment also includes the use of fat creams enriched with vitamins A and E. Ointments containing hormonal agents are used in cases where the use of topical non-hormonal agents does not bring relief.
Moreover, a good effect on psoriasis in the initial stage is noticed after applying a course of physiotherapy procedures:
- electrocution, which has a calming effect;
- wavelength ultraviolet radiation 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 initial stage of psoriasis, the doctor prescribes individually, focusing on the severity of symptoms, the age of the patient and the body's response to therapy.
Home treatment
To alleviate the condition in the initial stage of psoriasis, home treatment should be combined with a prescribed doctor. For most patients, dermatologists recommend starting with a change in diet, complete abandonment of fatty meats, smoked meats, hot spices, coffee, chocolate and alcohol. You need to diversify your diet with fresh fruits and vegetables (especially leafy), sour milk and fish products.
In order not to further irritate the skin, the use of baby soap or bath tar is recommended. Baths with collections of medicinal plants (tricolor violet, continuum, celandine, hops and others) and sea salt help well.
Experts also recommend not to refuse trips to the resorts where mud treatment is practiced, on the sea shore. At the same time, you should not choose the hottest months of the year for relaxation. At moderate temperatures, bath treatment, mud application and bathing in seawater provide a lasting effect.
Conclusion
When you wonder if it is possible to cure psoriasis in the initial stage, there is no doubt. By consulting a doctor in a timely manner, there is a high probability of forgetting the problem for a long time.