Scale lichen is one of the most common skin diseases. It is known that about 5% of people on the planet are familiar with the symptoms of first stage (scaly) cutaneous psoriasis. The cause of this disease lies in the body's inadequate reaction when exposed 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 early stage psoriasis
To date, the reasons why psoriasis appears at an early stage have not been fully elucidated. However, it is believed that the trigger that leads to the disease is 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 Stage One Psoriasis
It is important to recognize psoriasis at an early stage. After all, the timely initiation of treatment allows you to prevent the 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 up, connecting with each other. Then, patches of various sizes appear on the affected areas of the skin. They turn white and peel.
Does psoriasis itch in the early stage? Dermatologists usually give a positive answer to this question. Especially annoying itching where plaque buildup is greatest:
- on 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 usually appear in places that are constantly touched by 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 first rash 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 the exfoliation of the scales.
- The appearance of the so-called terminal film under the scale.
- The appearance of bruises on the skin (blood dew droplets).
In the early stage of psoriasis, the symptoms (skin rashes) disappear after about 2 months. If left untreated, after a while they will reappear, but in a much larger volume.
Treatment of early stage psoriasis
Doctors carefully approach the treatment of the initial form of the disease. And if two decades ago, at the first signs, quite serious drugs were prescribed, including hormonal and cytostatic drugs, modern tactics are aimed at eliminating the cause of the exacerbation - patients are advised to avoid stress, review nutrition, lead a lifestyle measured life. To eliminate unpleasant symptoms, specialists prescribe non-hormonal topical agents, including ointments, gels, shampoos prepared on the basis of:
- birch, pine or juniper tar;
- grease;
- oil;
- anti-inflammatories (salicylic and zinc ointment).
In 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.
Also, a good effect on psoriasis at the initial stage is observed 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 early-stage psoriasis are prescribed 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 stage of psoriasis, home treatment should be combined with a doctor's prescription. 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 ones), sour milk and fish products.
In order not to further irritate the skin, it is recommended to use baby soap or tar for washing. Baths with collections of medicinal herbs (tricolor violets, succession, celandine, hops and others) and sea salt help well.
Experts also recommend not refusing trips to resorts where mud treatment is practiced on the sea coast. At the same time, you shouldn't choose the hottest months of the year to relax. In moderate temperatures, spa treatments, mud applications and seawater baths provide a lasting effect.
Conclusion
When wondering whether it is possible to cure psoriasis at the early stage, there is no doubt. When consulting a doctor in a timely manner, there is a high probability of forgetting about the problem for a long time.