With anything you should definitely consult your physician before taking matters into your own hands. However, once you have the sign off from the MD, put these plans into practice before making a beeline for the doctor's office.
Psoriasis
Psoriasis is a chronic skin condition caused by an overactive immune system. It may be hereditary as about one-third of people with psoriasis have one or more relatives with psoriasis.
The way it works is that T-cells invade tissues and release keratinocytes, which go into overdrive. The base layer of skin moves to the top of the dermis and then sheds skin as it normally does – once a week. Symptoms include flaking, thick silvery or red patches, and inflammation. Caution: an injury to the skin can create psoriasis patches anywhere on the body or at the injury site. Other triggers include infections such as strep throat, cold and dry climates, smoking and stress.
Home treatments are generally convenient and avoid the hassle of traveling with an apparent flare-up. Some people are very self-conscious of psoriasis signs. The following home treatments come with a warning: caveat emptor (buyer beware). So be careful and cognizant of allergies or other conditions that may preempt the use of a treatment.
• Daily fish oil supplements or two servings of salmon and other fatty fishes a week. Fatty fish are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, a powerful antioxidant. Studies have demonstrated that fish oil boosts the immune system and since psoriasis is an autoimmune disease, it makes sense that omega-3 fatty acids will make a difference. But a big no-no is mixing fish oil with blood thinners. It increases the risk of bleeding.