Health & Medical Diseases & Conditions

What is Scalp Psoriasis?

Scalp psoriasis is not normally a life threatening disease but it does affect millions of people world wide every year. It is a disorder of the skin that has varying degrees of severity. The more severe cases can cause psychological self-image problems because the flaking skin and raised red patches that accompany this disorder can be visually repulsive to other people. There are a number of over the counter medications that are available to treat scalp psoriasis and bring relief to those who suffer from it.

Scalp psoriasis is a chronic condition where the generation of new skin is accelerated to a degree that it creates raised-red blotches on the skin. This raised skin, or epidermal lesion, is covered with dry silvery scales that itch, burn, crack, and sometimes bleed or become infected. If the scalp psoriasis is severe enough it can be disfiguring and debilitating. Medical science has been unable to pinpoint the exact cause but autoimmune attack on the affected regions is the suspected cause. Attacks appear to be caused by trauma, infection, hormonal changes and stress.

The large flaky scales of scalp psoriasis can be very uncomfortable and itch painfully. This causes the psoriasis sufferer to scratch the scalp causing the flakes to fall off the scalp much like dandruff. This is not only visually unappealing to those who do not understand what scalp psoriasis is it is also uncomfortable and painful to those who suffer it.

Over the counter medications are the normal avenues of treatment for scalp psoriasis. It is always best to consult with a doctor before starting any treatment regimen because they can recommend the best way to treat the condition, whether it be OTC drugs or a stronger prescription. If a prescription is needed the doctor may well prescribe a cortisteroid anti-inflammatory which is used to reduce swelling and inflammation that comes with more severe forms of psoriasis.

Most people who do have psoriasis will not need a prescription to treat their condition. Scalp psoriasis has different affects on all its sufferers so it's important to remember that not all treatments work the same for everybody. If one treatment doesn't work, don't give up, it's just a matter of finding the right one. Sometimes it may take a little patience to find the correct treatment.

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