What is Psoriasis?
Psoriasis is an immune-mediated disease that causes raised, scaly patches on the skin due to systemic inflammation.
The pathophysiology of psoriasis is multifactorial and involves epidermal hyperproliferation, abnormal differentiation of epidermal keratinocytes, and inflammation with immunologic alterations in the skin.
According to Psoriasis Association of Malaysia, it is estimated that 500,000 to 800,000 Malaysians are affected by psoriasis.
Common risk factors
Sign & Symptoms
•Red patches of skin covered with thick, silvery scales
•Dry, cracked skin that may bleed
•Itching & burning sensation around patches
•Thick, pitted nails
•Swollen, stiff joints
Complications
•Heart disease
•High blood pressure
•Kidney disease
•Type II diabetes
•Psoriatic arthritis
•Low self-esteem & depression
Food to Focus
•Vegetables (bell peppers, brussels sprouts, cabbage, broccoli)
•Fatty fish (salmon, sardines, mackerel)
•Turmeric
Food to Avoid
•Alcohol
•Gluten
•Refined sugar
•Processed food
Lifestyle Modifications
•Apply moisturizers frequently
•Avoid smoking & alcohol
•Avoid trigger food (refined sugar, processed food, red meat)
•Manage stress with yoga & meditation
References
1. Pathophysiology of psoriasis [Internet]. Pathophysiology of Psoriasis - an overview | ScienceDirect Topics. [cited 2022Jan7]. Available from: https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/medicine-and-dentistry/pathophysiology-of-psoriasis
2. Persatuan Dermatologi Malaysia (PDM). [cited 2022Jan7]. Available from: https://www.dermatology.org.my/psoriasis_association.php
3. Lindsay J. Warner Updated September 02 2021. Best and worst foods to eat for psoriasis [Internet]. EatingWell. [cited 2022Jan7]. Available from: https://www.eatingwell.com/article/2053020/best-and-worst-foods-to-eat-for-psoriasis/
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