Psoriasis is an immune-mediated disease that is characterized by inflammation in the body caused by dysfunction of the immune system.
Visible thick, scaly patches of skin called plaques can appear anywhere on the body but are usually found on the elbows, knees, face, scalp, genitals, lower back and palms, and feet.
Plaques can also be found inside the mouth and on fingernails and toenails.
Psoriasis occurs due to an overactive immune system where skin cell growth is accelerated. Normal skin cells grow and shed in about a month’s time. With psoriasis, the skin cell growth is accelerated to a three to four-day cycle. Instead of shedding, skin cells pile up on the surface of the skin causing the plaques and scales that are often reported to be accompanied by pain, itchiness, burning, and stinging.
Other types of psoriasis include scalp psoriasis, nail psoriasis, guttate psoriasis, inverse psoriasis, pustular psoriasis, erythrodermic psoriasis, and psoriatic arthritis. Anyone can develop psoriasis and at any age, although most cases are diagnosed in childhood. Other risk factors include family history, stress, smoking, and cold weather.
Treatment for this chronic disease may vary depending on the severity of the plaques or rashes. Moisturizers, medicated soaps, lotions and shampoos, and steroid or retinol creams are available for milder cases, while light therapies and specific medication are prescribed for more serious cases. The challenges with medication and psoriasis are that different people react differently to each medication and that the effects of the medication tend to wear off after frequent use.
Salt Therapy is a natural solution that can be supplemental in providing relief for those who suffer from any form of psoriasis. In a salt therapy session, the microscopic dry salt particles enter the body through the respiratory system as well as absorption through the skin. Anti-inflammatory properties found in salt help soothe and calm itchy skin, while anti-bacterial properties kill germs and unwanted bacteria. Salt also reduces the IgE levels in the body so that the immune system is less susceptible to outbreaks and triggers that could cause flare-ups.
The recommended frequency of sessions is once a week for mild psoriasis and two to three times a week for severe symptoms. It is important to note that Salt Therapy is a natural supplemental way to help alleviate symptoms but does not cure any condition or disease.
