More than medication

These factors together can result in some people with psoriasis having low self-esteem.

It can be a challenging experience for those involved in caring for someone with psoriasis, and for those providing support on a day-to-day basis. Family and friends may be affected if someone close to them no longer feels comfortable to attend social events. Close family may also be anxious about the long term impact of the condition and what they can do to help.

Taking control

Managing psoriasis is about a combination of things – taking your treatment as prescribed and looking after your general health. The next steps can help you continue to take an active role in your treatment:

1. Work with your doctor

   Talk to your doctor about changes in your symptoms to help him or her determine the right treatment for you. Always take your medications as your doctor prescribes. But remember to report any changes in your health or side effects that you may experience. Your doctor needs that information to make sure that your treatment is the right one for you.

2. Keep Informed

   Don't be afraid to ask your doctor questions about psoriasis or your treatment. You can also use books, magazines, and online resources to learn more about Psoriasis and stay up-to-date on new developments in medicine and treatment options.

3. Consider Lifestyle Changes

   In addition to a healthy diet, finding a balance between physical activities (like walking or water aerobics) and rest can help to ease the pain of psoriatic arthritis.

Alternative approaches

Some people swear by alternative or complementary treatments as a way to help calm their symptoms of Psoriasis. It's a good idea to talk to your doctor before trying any of these alternative approaches, in order to avoid potential problems.

Here are some of these approaches:

• Herbal products

  Some people with Psoriasis use herbal products that can be applied directly to the skin. Examples of herbal products used in Psoriasis include capsaicin (found in cayenne pepper), aloe vera, dong quay and evening primrose oil.

  Although they are natural products, some herbal products contain powerful active ingredients which can cause side effects. For example, dong quay contains a psoralen, similar to the drug used in PUVA. Herbal products such as aloe vera, capsaicin and dong quay may also interfere with prescription medicines you may be taking. So it's important to make sure your doctor knows about any complementary therapies you may be considering, so that your medication plan can be adjusted if necessary.

• Sunlight

  Exposure to sunlight may help clear Psoriasis. Because of this, there are treatment centres around the world in sunny places such as the Dead Sea. The unique light conditions, as well as the water properties at the Dead Sea has made its treatment centre particularly successful. Some people treated there have shown a good response to treatment which in some cases has included complete clearing of Psoriasis.

• Other alternative approaches

  Other alternative medicine approaches have been suggested as ways of improving Psoriasis. These include acupuncture, traditional Indian or Chinese medicine, and homeopathy. However, these approaches have not been proven scientifically to improve the symptoms.

  Psychotherapy, yoga and meditation might help to improve your Psoriasis because they may help to reduce stress which can trigger Psoriasis flares.