Managing Psoriasis Bleeding: Advice for Care and Prevention of Bleeding Episodes due to Psoriasis
Psoriasis, a common skin condition, can cause plaques on the skin that may become severe and lead to bleeding. Here are some home remedies and preventive measures to help manage this condition:
Soothing the Skin
Applying gentle, deep moisturizing oils such as coconut oil, avocado oil, or extra-virgin olive oil can help soothe the skin, reduce cracking, and prevent bleeding plaques. Some people use these oils by massaging on the scalp or affected areas and covering with plastic wrap or a shower cap to enhance absorption before washing off.
Avoiding Irritants
While apple cider vinegar can relieve itchiness, it should be avoided on cracked or bleeding skin as it may cause burning. Instead, opt for gentle natural shampoos or products with anti-inflammatory ingredients such as neem oil, tea tree oil shampoos, or natural pine tar soap.
Gentle Cleansing
Soaking baths with Epsom salts or sea salts can reduce symptoms and may help soften plaques. However, it's crucial to moisturize afterward to prevent skin dryness. Additionally, washing with lukewarm water without vigorous scrubbing or rubbing can help prevent further irritation.
Managing Bleeding
During flare-ups, it's important to prevent and manage bleeding. This can be achieved by applying firm, continuous pressure with a clean cloth or bandage, elevating the affected area to reduce blood flow, and applying ice wrapped in cloth to constrict blood vessels. For oral bleeding, cooled black tea bags can aid clotting.
Supportive Measures
Taking anti-inflammatory supplements like turmeric (curcumin) and consuming omega-3 fatty acids can help reduce overall inflammation.
Professional Care
Severe or widespread bleeding plaques require professional medical care to prevent infection and progression. A doctor or dermatologist can provide instructions on how to care for the skin and may prescribe topical vitamin D analogs, corticosteroids, or systemic medications such as apremilast, biologic medications, cyclosporin, methotrexate, acitretin, TYK2 inhibitor, among others.
Prevention and Care
To prevent bleeding from psoriasis plaques, it's essential to trim nails, wear gloves at night, and avoid scratching or picking at plaques. Applying a cool compress may help reduce the urge to scratch or pick.
If bleeding is frequent or excessive, a healthcare provider should be consulted to optimize treatment and prevent complications. It's also important to watch for signs of infection such as pus, discharge, tenderness, worsening inflammation, or skin that is hot to the touch. If any of these symptoms occur, an individual with psoriasis should contact a doctor immediately.
In summary, managing severe psoriasis at home involves moisturizing with natural oils, gentle cleansing, avoiding harsh irritants, and carefully managing bleeding with pressure, elevation, and ice. For severe or widespread bleeding plaques, professional medical care is necessary to prevent infection and progression.
- In addition to home remedies, it's crucial to consult professionals for managing severe psoriasis, as they might prescribe topical vitamin D analogs, corticosteroids, or systemic medications like apremilast, biologic medications, cyclosporin, methotrexate, acitretin, TYK2 inhibitor, and others.
- Prevention plays a significant role in managing skin conditions such as psoriasis, which includes trimming nails, wearing gloves at night, and avoiding scratching or picking at plaques to prevent accidental falls and further irritation.
- Proper healthcare management of psoriasis is essential, as it can prevent the advancement of medical-conditions related to this skin condition and minimize health-and-wellness risks, particularly in cases of frequent or excessive bleeding.
