Psoriasis is a skin condition that is more prevalent than most people think. In fact, approximately less than 3% of Americans are diagnosed to have psoriasis and thousands of new cases are expected to turn up every year. The causes for psoriasis are still undetermined; what they do know however is that for a person to develop psoriasis depends largely on several "triggers" such as stress, medication, and skin infections and injuries.

Affected areas ? referred to as plaques by dermatologists ? often feel dry and hot, making suffering invidividuals feel the intense urge to scratch. Psoriasis can lead to more serious complications, however, if pruritus ? or itching and scratching ? isn't controlled.

Possible Effects From Scratching

Besides having more and worse problems with psoriasis, uncontrolled scratching may have other medical and non-medical effects on the affected individual:

Addiction ? Once you start scratching, it's possible that you'll never be able to stop. Consequently, the urge to scratch may become a condition that you won't be able to resist indulging in. This addiction is also known as the itch-scratch cycle.

Distraction ? Scratching can occupy your whole mind to the point that it will distract you from accomplishing whatever your objectives are efficiently, thoroughly, and on time.

Lack of Confidence ? Individuals who scratch one time too often in public are often viewed as people with embarrassing hygiene problems. And since you can't explain the reason why to each and every stranger seeing you scratching, your confidence might suffer when you're the recipient of not-so-friendly looks.

Relationship Problems ? Constant scratching can irritate people around you such as your family, friends, and even your partner. Even though they know why you're scratching, that doesn't mean they have to understand and tolerate what you're doing, especially since scratching isn't at all advised in your condition.

Skin Infection ? Besides the development of new plaques in your head and body (referred to as the Koebner phenomenon), pruritus can also create openings in your body which may allow bacteria to come in and cause you to suffer from all sorts of infection.

Temporary Measures to Keep from Scratching Yourself

Curing yourself out of the scratching symptoms of psoriasis is one that requires long-term treatment. If, however, you need to stop your fingers from clawing its way to your skin pronto, here's what you should do:

Using a Cold Compress ? Place a cold compress or anything clean and intensely cold next to affected areas can succeed in keeping the urge to scratch at bay?for the time being.

Topical Medications ? Also known as topical steroids, this type of medication is usually the initial treatment you'll receive from your physician for psoriasis. Some topical ointments are sold off the counter while a few may require you to have your doctor's permission. When applied to affected areas, topical ointments can soothe away the burning sensation for a short period of time. As topical ointments vary greatly, it's best that you consult your physician prior to trying anything so as to prevent yourself from having undesirable reactions to the treatment.

Take a Bath ? Taking a warm and soothing bath is usually effective for people who want to get rid of their scratching urges in an instant. Of course, stepping out of the tub may allow the irritating feeling to surge back after a few minutes.

Skin Love ? Taking care of your skin can also help relieve you from feeling scratching. Keeping your skin moisturized, for instance, will significantly reduce the burning and irritation.

What to Do to Stop Yourself from Scratching

The best way to get rid of your scratching and itching problems is to solve the root problem itself: psoriasis. If you're able to treat psoriasis effectively, there'll be no reason why you'll feel the need to scratch because there IS nothing to scratch!

Methrotrexate ? This particular medication can either be taken orally in pill or liquid form or intravenously. Caution must be exercised however as this drug can cause liver or bone trouble.

UVB Photography ? UVB light is used to eliminate visible effects of psoriasis. To avail of this treatment, a person may have to spend approximately half an hour in a life booth and attend as much as thirty sessions.

Psoriasis may be a lifelong condition and without cure, but this doesn't mean it can't be managed effectively. Having a healthy lifestyle, a cheerful disposition, and continuous medication can go a long way in relieving you from psoriasis trouble?and scratching.