Psoriasis, a skin disease with no cure, is a serious condition that needs careful management, especially in the elderly. Psoriasis symptoms vary depending on the type of psoriasis but often include red, itchy patches on the knees and elbows.
This chronic disease may flare for a few weeks or months, before subsiding for a while. However, many psoriasis patients suffer from arthritis and its complications which require specialist treatment and medical care.
Psoriasis Symptoms
Signs and symptoms will vary in severity from person to person and usually include patches of red skin. Thick silvery scales often cover these skin patches, which can also be dry and cracked. Consequently, patients experience an urge to scratch the itchy patches and that can lead to bleeding.
Other psoriasis symptoms include swollen or stiff joints and thickened, pitted, or ridged nails. The extent of affected skin – often on the lower back, elbows, knees, scalp, and soles of the feet – will vary. The most common form of the disease, plaque psoriasis, causes raised, red lesions covered with silvery scales.
Despite the fact that psoriasis is incurable, steroid and other creams can bring significant relief. However, don’t try and self-medicate. Always seek professional medical advice if you or a loved has itchy skin. And the good news is that there have been patients whose skin cleared entirely.
Other Diseases Linked To Psoriasis and Its Symptoms
Psoriatic arthritis – is often diagnosed after psoriasis. Common symptoms are joint pain, and stiffness and swelling in any part of the body, including fingertips and spine. Joint problems can sometimes begin before skin patches appear. So, careful diagnosis is important.
As with psoriasis, mild or severe symptoms of psoriatic arthritis can flare up and die down over time. And a treatment that’s highly regarded for all arthritis and joints related pain is physical therapy.
Depression, stress and anxiety are debilitating conditions that weaken the immune system and lead to ill-health. Unfortunately, many elderly people with psoriasis symptoms also suffer from these conditions. People with anxiety disorders or depression often struggle to cope with the activities of daily living and need loving care.
Diabetes, hypertension, cardiovascular disease, and obesity and some other health issues are linked to psoriasis. They include:
- Inflammatory bowel disease,
- Cancer,
- Kidney disease,
- Sleep apnea,
- Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.
Research shows that effective treatment of psoriasis can also reduce the risk of other comorbidities.
We can help
Haym Salomon Home for Nursing & Rehabilitation in Brooklyn NY specializes in treating and caring for patients with psoriasis alongside other health issues. Many of our patients present with a range of diseases and ailments common in the elderly, including psoriasis.
We are experienced at managing most health conditions – many of them life-threatening. We are experts at dealing with and managing psoriasis symptoms and its complications. Do contact us if you would like to learn more about restorative therapies and care services we provide to patients.
Haym Salomon Home’s dedicated team will work diligently to help patients and their families in reaching the optimal goals in all aspects of the treatment.
This content comprises informative and educational resources only and can not be considered as a substitute for professional health or medical guidance. Reliance on any information provided in this article is solely at your own risk. If you have any inquiries or apprehensions about your medical condition or health goals, talk with a licensed physician or healthcare provider.
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