Podcast PTA FUNK: Einfach Englisch lernen – Psoriasis

Dialogue

Customer: Good afternoon, I’d like some cream for my elbow. It’s dry, itchy and scaly. My scalp is itchy too. I have often had dry itchy skin but having recently read an article about it, I am now a bit worried that it could be psoriasis. What do you think?

PTA: Would you mind showing me?

Customer: Not at all.

PTA: Yes, the scale is silvery. You could be right. How long has it been like this?

Customer: A few weeks. Do you think someone has passed it on?

PTA: Psoriasis is not contagious but it does need treatment. Is there any history of skin problems in your family?

Customer: I know that my grandfather wouldn’t wear short trousers because of a skin condition. Is it hereditary?

PTA: Research is ongoing but as yet little is known about the genetics of psoriasis. It is thought to be a multi-system disease as many patients show signs of other disorders at the same time. You should definitely arrange an appointment with a dermatologist. Do you smoke or drink?

Customer: I don’t smoke but I do like a glass of wine in the evening.

PTA: A healthy lifestyle is always advisable. Fresh fruit and vegetables, and omega-3 fatty acids may be beneficial. Alcohol and any kind of junk food are likely to trigger an attack of psoriasis.

Customer: So, what should I do?

PTA: The first thing to try is an emollient.

Customer: What’s that?

PTA: It’s a moisturiser with a soothing effect on the skin. It will coat it with a protective film to prevent dehydration and itching and scaling should be reduced. You dot it onto the skin and then apply it with long downward strokes. This is basic procedure and is helpful in any case. Furthermore, it’s important to resist picking and scratching.

Customer: Okay, what will the doctor do?

PTA: Generally, psoriasis is not difficult to diagnose. A skin sample may be taken but only if the case is unclear. Other symptoms you may have, will be discussed and it’s also important to check for psoriatic arthritis which affects the joints and can be very painful. Good disease control can also prevent future flare-ups.

Customer: What about my scalp?

PTA: Descaling may be necessary in order for topical treatment to work. You could try warm oil and preparations containing salicylic acid may be helpful. I would recommend that you use this until your doctor has reached a diagnosis.

Customer: That’s been very helpful. Could you show me an appropriate cream and a shampoo, please?

PTA: Certainly.

Hier finden Sie den kompletten Heftarchivartikel Psoriasis: An Overabundance of Skin Cells  aus unserer Serie English for PTA.