Psoriasis is a noncontagious autoimmune skin condition that affects between two and three percent of the world’s population, occurring equally in males and females of all ages. This chronic, inflammatory disease results in scale-like plaques on the skin’s surface that develop when the body produces new skin cells faster than previous skin cells are lost. Symptoms range from mild to severe, with plaques most often forming on the knees, scalp, elbows, hands, and lower back.
In addition to causing pain, itching, and discomfort, psoriasis can cause psychological distress due to the perceived cosmetic impact of the condition, which can lead to lack of confidence and social isolation. There is no known cure for psoriasis, but symptoms can be managed with regular treatment.
What Psoriasis Looks and Feels Like
There are several different types of psoriasis, all of which look and feel slightly different. Most sufferers have what is known as ‘plaque’ psoriasis, which presents as thickened patches of dry, slivery skin. Other types of psoriasis include:
- Scalp psoriasis – Patches of scaly skin on the scalp, which may lead to hair loss
- Nail psoriasis – Pitted or crumbling nails, which are often spotted with brown and yellow pigment.
- Guttate psoriasis – Small, scaly, red spots. Most often found in children.
- Erythrodemic psoriasis – Large patches of red, burnt-looking skin.
Triggers
Psoriasis most commonly occurs between the ages of 20 and 30, or 50 and 60 with symptoms coming and going throughout a person’s lifetime. Avoiding known triggers can help to extend these periods of remission. The following triggers are thought to be linked to psoriasis flare-ups:
- Excessive alcohol consumption
- Cold, dry weather conditions
- Stress
- Smoking or passive smoking
- Skin injuries (scrapes, sunburn and insect bites)
- Certain medications
Treatment Options
There are a wide variety of psoriasis treatments which can help sufferers manage symptoms. These include:
- Topical ointments and creams slow down or normalize excessive cell reproduction and reduce inflammation. Steroid creams are the most common treatment.
- Phototherapy (light therapy) involves exposing affected skin to ultraviolet light on a regular basis under medical supervision.
- Systemic drugs are used when a person doesn’t respond to topicals or phototherapy and are taken by mouth or given by infusion or injection.
- Integrative medicine includes complementary treatments such as as healthy diet, regular stretching and exercise and alternative therapies such as physical therapy and acupuncture
If you are suspect you may have psoriasis, search online to learn more about this autoimmune condition. Talk to your general practitioner or dermatologist if you are showing symptoms of psoriasis. They will be able to recommend an appropriate treatment plan based on the severity of the disease and your medical history.