Pityriasis rosea is a rather common skin condition that affects persons, mostly female, aged between 10 and 30 years old. To date, it has not yet been established whether the disease is viral or bacterial. Note that pityriasis occurs more frequently in autumn and spring than in summer. While rather benign and not very contagious, this condition nonetheless requires treatment.
Usually the first symptom of pityriasis is the appearance of a round-shaped skin lesion of which the diameter ranges from 2 to 5 centimetres. This lesion has a central embossed or wrinkled section surrounded by a red-coloured area that is bordered by thin whitish skin. Called “herald patch” or “primary plaque of mother patch”, this skin rash mostly appears on the limbs or trunk, but may also be absent. After a few days, there is an appearance of small, possibly itchy, red spots on the back, arms, hands and chest.
When pityriasis manifests itself by the onset of mycosis that exfoliates large-sized squamae, or by dry skin that results in the patient being itching, it is recommended to take Arsenicum iodatum 9 CH in combination with Sepia 5 CH, in which case three 3-granule intakes need to be administered. In cases the scales are thinner, the indicated remedy is Arsenicum album 5 CH. If the patient experiences itching, it is necessary to administer Graphites 15 CH. Cantharis 5 CH is well-suited for treating the disease if blistering occurs or if the skin’s surface layer is torn. Berberis vulgaris 5 CH is also indicated in this condition’s treatment. Five granules of this remedy need to be taken twice a day until the rash disappears.
A medical consultation is mandatory for diabetics suffering from pityriasis. Similarly, if in addition to pityriasis, the patient suffers from an impairment of the immune system, it is essential to consult a doctor as well. Furthermore, it is also essential for a patient to seek medical attention if he or she suffers from poor blood circulation in the limbs. Moreover, a medical consultation is also required if the lesions tend to spread despite the administration of homoeopathic remedies. Likewise, if the lesions are older, painful and oozing, or if they have a tendency to recur, the patient should immediately consult a doctor who will be able to prescribe the appropriate treatment.
Good to know: Pityriasis can spontaneously disappear after 4 to 6 weeks, although taking homoeopathic remedies helps to speed up the healing process. Besides that, the application of corticosteroid cream and exposition to UV rays can help make the red patches disappear.
