Psoriasis Myths Debunked | Facts About Causes & Treatment

Myths and Misconceptions about Psoriasis #

Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune disease that causes skin cells to grow too quickly, resulting in thick, scaly patches on the skin. It is not contagious, but its visible nature often leads to misunderstandings and stigma. Let’s debunk some common myths about psoriasis:  

Myth 1: Psoriasis is contagious. #

Fact: Psoriasis is absolutely not contagious. It cannot be spread from person to person through touch, sharing personal items, or any other means. It is an autoimmune condition, meaning the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks healthy skin cells.  

• Source: National Psoriasis Foundation (www.psoriasis.org)

Myth 2: Psoriasis is just a cosmetic problem. #

Fact: While psoriasis primarily affects the skin, it is a systemic disease that can have significant impacts on overall health and well-being. People with psoriasis have an increased risk of developing other conditions, including:  

• Psoriatic arthritis  
• Cardiovascular disease  
• Diabetes  
• Depression and anxiety  
• Source: Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology (JAAD) – “Comorbidities associated with psoriasis: An update” (2017)

Myth 3: Psoriasis is caused by poor hygiene. #

Fact: Psoriasis is not caused by poor hygiene. It is a complex condition with a genetic basis, often triggered by environmental factors like stress, infections, or certain medications.  

• Source: British Journal of Dermatology – “The genetics of psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis” (2015)

Myth 4: There is no effective treatment for psoriasis. #

Fact: While there is no cure for psoriasis, many effective treatments can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life. These include:  

• Topical treatments (creams and ointments)  
• Phototherapy (light therapy)  
• Systemic medications (oral or injected)  
• Biologic therapies (target specific parts of the immune system)  
• Source: The Lancet – “Advances in the treatment of psoriasis” (2020)

Myth 5: Psoriasis only affects adults. #

Fact: Psoriasis can affect people of all ages, including children. In fact, about 30% of people with psoriasis develop the condition before the age of 20.  

• Source: National Psoriasis Foundation (www.psoriasis.org)

Myth 6: Diet has no impact on psoriasis. #

Fact: While diet alone cannot cure psoriasis, certain foods may trigger flares or worsen symptoms. These include:  

• Alcohol
• Processed foods
• Red meat
• Sugary drinks

A healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and omega-3 fatty acids may help improve psoriasis symptoms.  

• Source: JAMA Dermatology – “Diet and psoriasis: Part 3. Role of nutritional factors in the pathogenesis of psoriasis” (2018)

Myth 7: Stress doesn’t affect psoriasis. #

Fact: Stress is a well-known trigger for psoriasis flares. Managing stress through techniques like exercise, relaxation, and mindfulness can help improve symptoms.  

• Source: American Journal of Clinical Dermatology – “Stress and psoriasis: A review of the pathophysiology and clinical implications” (2019)

Myth 8: Psoriasis is all the same. #

Fact: There are several different types of psoriasis, each with its own characteristics and treatment options. The most common type is plaque psoriasis, characterized by thick, red patches with silvery scales. Other types include:  

• Guttate psoriasis  
• Inverse psoriasis
• Pustular psoriasis
• Erythrodermic psoriasis
• Source: World Psoriasis Day conference – “Psoriasis: A global perspective” (2022)

Conclusion: #

It’s crucial to dispel myths and misconceptions surrounding psoriasis to reduce stigma and improve understanding of this complex condition. If you or someone you know has psoriasis, it’s essential to seek information from reliable sources and consult a healthcare professional for appropriate diagnosis and treatment.