Year: 2024
Type: article
Abstract: Introduction Pathogenesis of psoriasis is multifactorial: genetic, immunological and environmental factors contribute together. Although intrinsic pathways of the disease patients are not able to modify, extrinsic factors (e.g. lifestyle, environmental factors) are those who pay patient’s attention. Chronicity of psoriatic disease promotes to seek for additional factors and recommendations that could help to prevent disease progression/symptoms/outbreaks. From the patient’s perspective using the internet to look for information in non-scientific portals is the most accessible and easiest way to find wanted. The aim of this study was to look for lifestyle recommendations in Latvian non- scientific mass media websites, which are given to prevent psoriasis outbreaks and relieve symptoms. Materials and Methods In June 2024, 8 Latvian mass media non-scientifical web portals and 30 articles (01.2022–06.2024) under the keywords ‘psoriasis’, ‘psoriasis treatment’, and ‘how to deal with psoriasis’ were analysed. Information was summarized to find out the most common lifestyle recommendations that are given to patients. Results The study showed that the most often was recommended to moisturize the skin with emolients (15 articles); 10 articles recommended skin cleansing as a daily routine with non-irritating, fragrance- and colour-free agents. The majority of received articles (25) mentioned that stress management, healthy sleep routine, physical activity and maintaining a healthy weight are the main factors that can help to prevent outbreaks. In five articles: vitamins D, B and A, and primrose oil were mentioned, but three of them recommended a special diet reducing consumption of dairy products, carbohydrates-, especially sugar, wheat flour and gluten. In six articles, it was recommended to stop smoking and using alcohol. Three of them suggested avoiding any skin traumas as well as tattoos and piercings, but only two recommended not to scratch and exfoliate the skin aggressively. In two articles it was recommended to use natural fabric clothing, do meditation and use phototherapy with UVB light. Two articles revealed the use of cold-pressed onion juice on celandine tincture to remove hyperkeratotic plaques. Only 3 of 30 articles recommended specialists' advice and specific treatment. Conclusions On the one hand from the patient's perspective, the internet is fulfilled with information and recommendations and can help to answer patient questions. On the other hand recommendations, fulfilment of the information can distract and delude the patients. Non-scientifical websites should be analysed critically. Most of them are made by non-health providers or translated from different languages. The lack of objectivity and not evidence-based information can lead to inadequate disease management, increase disbelief in treatment methods or even harm the patient.
Source: British Journal of Dermatology
Language: English
Subfield: General Health Professions
Field: Health Professions
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: bronze
OpenAlex ID: W4405230154