She Strengthens

Psoriasis on the Stomach: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

Psoriasis can affect any part of your body, including your stomach, including the belly button. This skin condition can cause itching, plaques, and inflammation, making it uncomfortable and unsightly. But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! In this article, we’ll explore the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for psoriasis on the stomach.

What Causes Psoriasis on the Stomach?

Psoriasis is a chronic skin condition that occurs when your immune system mistakenly attacks healthy skin cells. This can lead to an overproduction of skin cells, resulting in thick, scaly patches on the skin. While the exact cause of psoriasis is unknown, genetics, environmental factors, and certain medications can trigger it.

Symptoms of Psoriasis on the Stomach

Psoriasis symptoms vary from person to person, but common signs include:

• Patches of raised skin
• Dry skin that may bleed or crack
• Itching, inflamed, or burning skin
• Thick skin scales with a silvery-white coating

Types of Psoriasis that Can Affect the Stomach

There are several types of psoriasis that can affect the stomach, including:

• Plaque Psoriasis: The most common form of psoriasis, characterized by thickened areas of skin, inflamed skin, and red or discolored skin lesions covered in silvery scales.
• Inverse Psoriasis: Affects areas of skin with folds, such as the abdomen, armpits, groin, inner thighs, and under the breast. Symptoms include itching skin, smooth, red or discolored rashes, and red or discolored lesions in skin folds.
• Guttate Psoriasis: Characterized by round, red or discolored spots, often triggered by stress, strep throat, or skin injuries.
• Generalized Pustular Psoriasis (GPP): A rare and severe form of psoriasis, causing pustules on large areas of the body, including the stomach.
• Erythrodermic Psoriasis: A severe and rare form of psoriasis, covering vast areas of the skin and causing serious symptoms such as an increased heart rate, fluctuating body temperature, and severely burned skin.

Treatment Options for Psoriasis on the Stomach

While there is no cure for psoriasis, there are several treatment options available to ease symptoms:

• Prescription Steroid Creams: Reduce inflammation and relieve itching.
• Biologic Medications: Target specific proteins involved in the immune response.
• Phototherapy (Light Therapy): Exposure to ultraviolet light can slow down skin cell growth.
• Topical Retinoids: Derivatives of vitamin A, helping to reduce inflammation and prevent skin cell buildup.
• Coal Tar Cream, Oil, Soap, or Shampoo: Slows down skin cell growth and reduces inflammation.
• Meds to Decrease Bacteria or Yeast Growth: Antibiotics or antifungals to prevent infections.
• Vitamin D Creams: Helps to regulate skin cell growth.
• Over-the-Counter (OTC) Cortisone Cream or Ointment-Based Moisturizers: Relieves itching and inflammation.

Lifestyle Changes to Manage Psoriasis on the Stomach

In addition to medical treatment, making lifestyle changes can help reduce symptoms and prevent flare-ups:

• Keep Skin Folds Clean and Dry: Use baby powder to keep the belly button area dry.
• Quit Smoking: Smoking can increase the risk of developing psoriasis and worsen symptoms.
• Avoid Injuries: Take precautions to avoid skin injuries, such as bug bites and sunburn.
• Limit Alcohol Intake: Excessive drinking can interfere with psoriasis treatment and worsen symptoms.
• Climate Control: Use a humidifier to maintain a healthy skin environment.
• Take Quick Showers: Avoid long, hot baths that can dry out the skin.
• Mind Your Meds: Be aware of medications that can trigger psoriasis flare-ups.

When to Call a Doctor

If you experience severe psoriasis symptoms, such as:

• Skin that’s hot to the touch
• Pus coming out of the belly button
• A bleeding or swollen belly button
• Open wounds or sores on the skin
• A painful or extremely itchy belly button
• A fever, dizziness, or rapid heart rate

Call your healthcare professional for guidance and treatment. With the right treatment and lifestyle changes, you can manage psoriasis on the stomach and improve your overall skin health.