With up to 100,000 people in Ireland affected by psoriasis, and up to 20,000 of these living with a severe form of the common skin disorder, the Irish skin foundation has updated our “What you need to know about psoriasis” support booklet.
The new edition provides revised information on understanding, managing and living with psoriasis. Updated sections include, what psoriasis is, the different types of psoriasis, treatments available, associated conditions, self-care tips and more.
This booklet, which first appeared in 2014, was extensively revised after wide consultation with people with psoriasis who have contacted the ISF Helpline, dermatology nurses and hospital based consultant dermatologists.
Full range of treatment options
Although there is no cure (yet!) for psoriasis, there are a range of effective treatment options available. Treatment of psoriasis depends on its severity and location. Your doctor may prescribe a number of different treatments before finding one that works for you. This is usually done in a step by step process which is discussed in the booklet.
Scalp psoriasis affects up to 80% of people with psoriasis
A new step-by-step section on treatments for scalp psoriasis, has been included. The scalp is one of the most common sites to be affected by psoriasis, and sometimes is the only area of involvement.
This new section includes some really useful techniques you can use at home to treat your scalp psoriasis with over-the-counter and prescribed treatments.
Psoriatic Arthritis (PsA)
There are a number of other conditions that have been associated with psoriasis including PsA which is an inflammatory form of arthritis that can cause pain, swelling and damage to joints.
Studies indicate a wide prevalence rate of PsA among people with psoriasis; anything between 6% and 42%.
The ISF’s “What you need to know about Psoriasis” support booklet is available free of charge by post or can be downloaded from our site
Find out more about Psoriasis, download the new booklet or get in touch with our Helpline for guidance and support.
