About Oral Psoriasis
The causes of oral psoriasis are not fully understood, but it is believed to be an autoimmune condition where the body mistakenly attacks healthy skin cells in the mouth, leading to an overproduction of new skin cells. The exact mechanisms underlying this process are still being researched.
Non-modifiable risk factors are risk factors that cannot be changed. Non-modifiable risk factors for oral psoriasis include:
- Genetics: Having a family history of psoriasis increases the risk of developing oral psoriasis.
- Age: Psoriasis typically begins in young adulthood, with symptoms often starting between ages 15 and 25.
Modifiable risk factors are risk factors that can be changed or influenced. Modifiable risk factor for oral psoriasis include:
- Smoking: Smoking has been linked to an increased risk of developing psoriasis and may also exacerbate symptoms.
- Heavy alcohol consumption: Excessive alcohol intake has been associated with an increased risk of psoriasis.
- Exposure to pollution: Environmental factors, such as pollution, may contribute to the development or worsening of oral psoriasis.
- Certain medications: Some medications have been reported to trigger or worsen psoriasis symptoms, although the specific drugs can vary from person to person.
- Prolonged infections: Chronic or recurrent infections may play a role in the development or exacerbation of oral psoriasis.
It's important to note that these risk factors may not apply to everyone, and individual experiences can vary. If you suspect you have oral psoriasis or have concerns about your risk factors, it's best to consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and personalized advice.
The most common early symptoms of oral psoriasis include:
- Mouth sores
- Gum peeling
- Patches and pustules on the tongue
- Oral sensitivity
As oral psoriasis progresses or becomes more severe, other common symptoms may occur, such as:
- Difficulty swallowing food
- Burning sensation
- Difficulty chewing
- Bleeding
It's important to note that oral psoriasis is a rare form of psoriasis, and it often occurs in individuals who also have pustular or erythrodermic psoriasis. While symptoms of oral psoriasis can resolve on their own quickly, there are several treatment options that can help resolve the symptoms sooner. It's always best to consult with your healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment options.
To diagnose oral psoriasis, doctors commonly perform the following examinations, tests, and procedures:
- Visual exam: A doctor can often diagnose oral psoriasis through a visual examination of the lesions in the mouth. This is especially true if the person already has a known diagnosis of psoriasis.
- Biopsy: In some cases, a biopsy may be ordered to help confirm the diagnosis. During a biopsy, a small tissue sample is taken from one of the lesions and sent to a lab for further analysis. This helps rule out other conditions.
- Lab tests: Specific lab tests, such as blood draws, may be recommended to evaluate any underlying factors that could contribute to the severity of oral psoriasis.
It's important to follow up with your healthcare provider if your symptoms worsen or change after these examinations and tests. They may recommend additional clinical procedures or imaging studies based on your specific situation. Remember to consult with your healthcare professional for personalized advice.
The goals of treatment for oral psoriasis are to alleviate symptoms, promote healing, and prevent further complications. Here are the recommended treatments and how they work to achieve these goals:
Medications:
- Topical corticosteroids: These medications reduce inflammation and itching in the affected areas of the mouth.
- Immunosuppressant medications: These drugs suppress the immune system to reduce inflammation and slow down the cell turnover that causes psoriasis symptoms.
- Prescription-strength vitamin A (acitretin) medication: This medication helps regulate cell growth and reduce inflammation.
Therapeutic procedures:
- Phototherapy: This procedure uses light exposure to treat psoriasis lesions on the skin, including inside the mouth.
- Antiseptic mouth rinses: These rinses help reduce bacteria in the mouth, promoting healing and preventing infection.
Health behavior changes:
- Maintaining good oral hygiene: Regular brushing, flossing, and using a mouthwash can help reduce symptoms and promote healing.
- Avoiding triggers: Identifying and avoiding triggers that worsen oral psoriasis symptoms, such as certain foods or stress, can help manage the condition.
It's important to note that treatment plans may vary depending on the severity of oral psoriasis. Consulting with a healthcare professional is essential to determine the most appropriate treatment approach for individual cases.