07 Aug Celebrating Psoriasis Action Month
Celebrating Psoriasis Action Month
August is National Psoriasis Action Month. Together, we wish to shine a light on those affected by psoriatic conditions. This month gives us a chance to celebrate strength in the community, and spread awareness about this often misunderstood disease. Whether you’re living with psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, or know someone with a psoriatic condition, Psoriasis Action Month is a time to reflect, connect with others, and advocate for greater understanding.
Understanding Psoriasis and Its Impact
All psoriatic conditions are autoimmune disorders, meaning the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks healthy cells. In the case of plaque psoriasis, (the most common form of psoriasis) it results in rapid skin cell turnover and inflammation. In psoriatic arthritis, it leads to joint inflammation and damage.
While there are different types of psoriatic conditions, the common theme is uncontrolled inflammation. In plaque psoriasis, this manifests in raised, scaly patches on the skin. In psoriatic arthritis, it leads to swollen, painful joints. This inflammation affects a huge group of people. Over 8 million people in the country, and 125 million worldwide, live with psoriasis.
Genetic Predisposition & Triggering Factors
Exactly what causes the autoimmune dysfunction in psoriasis is not fully understood, however, there is a genetic component. People with a family history of psoriasis are at a higher risk for developing the condition. Specific genes have been researched and associated with psoriatic conditions.
In addition, some environmental and lifestyle factors can potentially trigger or exacerbate psoriatic condtions. Common triggers include stress, infections (like streptococcal throat infections), certain medications, skin injuries (Koebner phenomenon), and lifestyle factors such as smoking or excessive alcohol consumption.
Celebrating the Journey
Psoriasis Action Month is an opportunity for us to collectively honor the journey of those living with psoriatic conditions. This path requires resilience. Each flare-up, treatment trial, and small victory is a testament to strength. This month we wish to celebrate that strength and recognize the achievements of the psoriasis community.
Whether you are currently facing a psoriatic condition, or you know someone who is, it is important to support the psoriasis community. Together we can continue the conversation to raise awareness, lower social stigma, support advancement of research, and connect with others who are battling psoriasis.
Ways to Support Psoriasis Action Month
Share Your Story: Whether through social media using #psoriasisactionmonth, blogs, or community events, sharing your personal journey can provide comfort and inspiration to others. Your story can be a powerful tool for raising awareness and fostering a sense of connection.
Support Research: Many organizations are dedicated to advancing research and treatment for psoriasis and related conditions. Consider participating in or donating to research initiatives. Your support helps drive the progress needed to improve treatments and, ultimately, find a cure.
Links to psoriasis-related research organizations: National Psoriasis Foundation (NPF), American Skin Association (ASA), The Arthritis Foundation
Connect with the Community: Engage with online forums, local support groups, or social media communities. Connecting with others who understand your experiences can be incredibly validating and help improve the lives of those within the psoriasis journey.
Advocate for Awareness: Use Psoriasis Action Month as a platform to educate those around you. The more people understand psoriasis, the less stigma and misinformation we face. Share educational resources, host informational events, or simply have conversations with friends and family.
Practice Self-Care: This month, take extra time for self-care. Managing a chronic condition can be exhausting, and it’s important to nurture your physical and emotional well-being. Whether it’s through relaxation techniques, a new hobby, or simply taking time to rest, make sure you’re taking care of yourself.
Looking Forward
As we celebrate Psoriasis Action Month, let’s also look ahead to the future. Advances in research and treatment are promising, and ongoing advocacy plays a crucial role in shaping the future of psoriasis care. Your voice, your story, and your support are integral to this progress. Let’s embrace this month with pride, compassion, and solidarity. Together, we can raise awareness, support each other, and work toward a future where psoriasis and its related conditions are understood, managed, and ultimately cured. Happy Psoriasis Action Month to everyone in our community! Here’s to continuing the journey with strength and hope.
Psoriasis Treatment
Thanks in part to the research and progress made in recent years, management of psoriasis now includes the use of biologic medications. These treatments are available to help improve the quality of life for those affected by psoriasis.
The most common biologic infusion treatments for psoriasis are Remicade (infliximab), Skyrizi (Risankizumab), and Stelara (Ustekinumab). Remicade is also offered in several biosimilars that could lower the cost of treatment.
These infusions have been shown to improve symptoms and overall management of psoriatic conditions. However, they may not be appropriate for everyone. Your healthcare provider can help determine the best treatment plan for your unique treatment needs.
Where can I get my infusion?
Typically, biologics are administered via infusion or injection in a hospital or provider’s office. Nevertheless, recent findings suggest that receiving treatment at a stand-alone or ambulatory infusion center (AIC) can lower infusion costs by up to 53%, while providing a more individualized and private experience.
Here at Pure Infusion Suites, we believe the patient experience matters. We offer flexible scheduling, co-pay assistance, and other financial aid programs, as well as private suites equipped with recliners, flatscreen TVs, and snacks and drinks for you and your loved ones to enjoy. We wish to change the entire approach to infusion treatment, so that our patients can access the care they need in a comfortable setting.
Pure Infusion Suites currently has locations in Arizona, California, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, New Mexico, Oregon, Utah, and Washington. Our founders created Pure Infusion Suites to make the infusion process comfortable, streamlined, and affordable.
Our expertly trained staff will be with you throughout the infusion process to ensure easy referrals and insurance authorizations and reduce the cost of your infusion where we can.
At Pure Infusion Suites, there’s no waiting. You will immediately go into your private suite to enjoy your favorite shows, snacks, and meals during your infusion appointment.
If you or a loved one has been prescribed an injection or infusion add-on therapy for your ulcerative colitis and are looking for a patient-focused experience, click here.
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