Daily baths or showers are recommended. Avoid harsh scrubbing, which can irritate the skin and cause new outbreaks. Oatmeal baths may be soothing and may help to loosen scales . Commercial preparations may be used, or mix one cup of oatmeal into a tub of warm water. See psoriasis - support group .
Psoriasis is a chronic , lifelong condition that can be controlled with treatment.
It usually does not adversely affect general health, unless it is neglected or occurs in the elderly or very young. Call for an appointment with your health care provider if symptoms indicate psoriasis. Call for an appointment with your health care provider if psoriasis recurs frequently despite treatment. Also call if pustules , fever , muscle aches , fatigue , or other new or unexplained symptoms develop. Psoriasis is associated with changes in the nails of the hands and feet.