Don't assume that because there is no way to cure psoriasis that means you have to live with those annoying flares such as those which commonly recur on knees and elbows. Continue reading to learn more about amazing natural remedies that effectively treat the symptoms of psoriasis, calm and soothe skin during a psoriasis flare-up, and reduce the frequency of future flare-ups.
What Causes Psoriasis on Knees and Elbows?
Plaque psoriasis is an immune-mediated skin condition that can cause plaques to form on the skin on any part of the body. Plaques are areas where the skin is inflamed, red, thick covered in layers of silvery, flaky, scaly patches.
Psoriasis can happen anywhere on the body where there is skin. However, it most commonly occurs on the knees and elbows. It is estimated that about one-half of people with psoriasis experience symptoms on their elbows and about one-third experience symptoms on their knees.
The knees and elbows are extremely susceptible to psoriasis because they commonly are subject to friction. Constant exposure to friction, either from clothing rubbing on the skin, movement while sleeping, or engaging in a favorite activity can cause trauma to the skin, similar to a cut, scratch, sting or bite. That trauma is a major trigger of psoriasis flare-ups. Given knees and elbows are constantly in motion throughout the day with regular movement and normal activities, plaques can often form cracks or fissures. Fissures are deep cracks that can be extremely painful and even start to bleed.
What does Psoriasis on Knees and Elbows Look Like?
Psoriasis flare-ups on the knees and elbow are unpredictable. No two psoriasis flare-ups will be the same. Everything from the intensity of your symptoms to where they show up or how long they last will vary with each flare-up episode.
Flare-ups usually start as small red or pink bumps on the skin that develop into thick raised patches. These patches, known as plaques, often have a silver, scaly appearance silvery, scaly coating of skin. Psoriasis plaques vary in size and shape. They can be the size of a dime or they can cover the entire knee or elbow. Cracks or fissures can form in the dry, thick skin and cause bleeding and scabs. The location of the plaques can change as patches heal. New patches may appear in different locations in future flare-ups.
Psoriasis affects everyone differently. No two people experience the same symptoms. But the symptoms on the knees and elbows can flare more frequently since they are subject to constant friction. Psoriasis on the knees and elbows is considered by many people to be one of the toughest to treat. If psoriasis on the elbows and knees is left untreated, scarring can occur at the location of the fissures. To avoid unsightly scars, it is important to find a psoriasis treatment that helps treat the symptoms of psoriasis and controls the frequency and severity of recurring outbreaks. The good news is there are many ways to help keep psoriasis flares on knees and elbows under control.
Tips on Dealing with Psoriasis Flares on Knees and Elbows
There is no way to completely prevent future flare-ups from occurring on knees and elbows, however, several natural home remedies can help reduce the frequency and intensity of psoriasis flare-ups commonly experienced areas around knees and elbows. Some examples of natural remedies which can help manage psoriasis flare-ups include:
*Keep elbows and knees moisturized with steroid-free creams and moisturizers. Make sure to use moisturizers and creams that are rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory ingredients. An ideal product is Prosoria Rapid Repair Skin Exfoliating and Moisturizing Ointment. It softens and smooths rough, dry, cracked, flaking, inflamed, and irritated skin. It exfoliates and sloughs off dead skin cells leaving the skin smoother, hydrated, and intensively moisturized.
*Cover the affected areas at night to speed the healing cycle. Using Prosoria Rapid Repair Ointment morning and night works great to accelerate recovery and quickly restore the skin to a softer feel and smoother appearance.
*Prevent flares on knees and elbows with a consistent psoriasis skincare regimen. Consistency is important when it comes to skincare so make sure the skincare regimen you use is something that you can keep up easily. Prosoria is a simple once-daily 2-step Psoriasis Treatment System that treats, moisturizes, and exfoliates in one complete kit. With consistent use, Prosoria treats psoriasis symptoms and helps prevent flares from recurring.
*Manage the underlying inflammation with a daily turmeric supplement. Nuvothera Super-Micronized Turmeric Curcumin is ideal delivers maximum absorption and maximum potency with its water-soluble microparticle formulation.
*Expose skin to small amounts of sunlight. Research shows that Vitamin D and natural sunlight can help reduce inflammation to clear psoriasis plaques. Make sure you apply sunscreen before going out in the sun so you avoid damaging your skin.
*Avoid known psoriasis triggers. Everyone is different, but some of the most common triggers include heavy smoking, drinking alcohol, exposure to dry air from heaters, eating certain foods such as gluten and nightshades, and certain medications such as NSAIDs.
*Maintain a healthy lifestyle by maintaining a healthy weight, getting enough sleep and exercise, eating anti-inflammatory foods, and managing stress.
Reduce the cycle of psoriasis flares on knees and elbows and take control today. It's all about lifestyle choices and sticking with a psoriasis treatment maintenance regimen. Consistency is the key. Learn more about how Prosoria and Nuvothera are essential remedies to help maintain flare-free knees and elbows.
