Psoriasis is an inflammatory skin problem that usually shows up as dry, itchy, scaly patches of skin (plaques and erythematous papules covered with silvery scales). The condition usually develops when the life cycle of the skin cells speeds up. Consequently, skin cells build up rapidly on the skin’s surface and form scales and red patches that are usually painful and itchy.
This is usually a chronic issue that comes and goes, and therefore, the treatment goal is to lower the growth rate of skin cells and manage the symptoms. There is no known cure for psoriasis, but working with a reliable dermatologist can enable you to learn about the lifestyle measures that you can take to manage the symptoms. Different lifestyle changes along with adding certain supplements can manage psoriasis and reduce flare ups. Below is a discussion of some important things you should know about psoriasis.
Signs and Symptoms of Psoriasis
The signs and symptoms of psoriasis can vary from one person to another. They can also vary from one type of psoriasis to another. Some common types of psoriasis include the following:
- Plaque psoriasis – thick, scaly patches of skin commonly on knees, back, scalp, or elbows
- Nail psoriasis – discoloration of skin below nails, nail pitting, and changes to nails
- Guttate psoriasis – appears after an infection (like strep throat), common in young adults, usually goes away completely
- Inverse psoriasis – smooth, shiny discolored patches of skin in areas where skin rubs together (armpits, belly, under breasts, groin)
- Erythrodermic psoriasis – this is a rare and potentially fatal form where psoriasis spreads over most of the body
- Psoriatic arthritis – causes swollen, painful joints, often fingers and toes
Generally, the most common signs and symptoms of psoriasis include:
- Red areas of skin covered with silvery, thick scales
- Small scaling spots particularly in children
- Burning, itching, or soreness
- Stiff or swollen joints
- Thickened, ridged, or pitted nails
The areas affected by psoriasis can range from small spots with dandruff-like scales to huge eruptions covering large areas of the body. You should seek medical attention if:
- The symptoms are causing you significant pain or discomfort
- If the condition is making the simple routine tasks more difficult for you to accomplish
- If the symptoms are giving you aesthetic concerns
- If the issue is giving you joint problems such as swelling and pain
You may also seek medical advice from a dermatologist if the symptoms are not improving with medication. You may require different medication or even a combination of treatments to deal with psoriasis.
Causes of Psoriasis
The cause of psoriasis is yet to be fully understood. However, it is believed to be associated with the immune system’s issues with the T cells and other white blood cells. Psoriasis typically starts to worsen with triggers such as:
- Stress
- Smoking
- Drinking
- Heavy alcohol consumption
- Vitamin D deficiency
- Injury to the skin
- Infections, such as skin infection or strep throat
- Certain medications such as lithium, which is usually prescribed in treating bipolar disorders, malaria, and high blood pressure.
The Bottom Line
Overall, it is apparent that psoriasis is a skin condition that emerges as a result of an increase in the speed of skin cells’ life cycle. The condition is chronic, and therefore, treatment only focuses on slowing down the life cycle of the skin cells and managing the symptoms. Thus, if you have symptoms of psoriasis, working with a reliable dermatologist can enable you to access the right medication and learn the best lifestyle decisions that you should take to avoid the triggers and get relief from the symptoms. If you are looking for a reliable dermatologist who can help you in treating psoriasis, Manhattan Dermatology is an excellent skin care facility to visit.
References:
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/22841-nail-psoriasis
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/22842-plaque-psoriasis
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/22812-guttate-psoriasis
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/22852-inverse-psoriasis
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/22998-erythrodermic-psoriasis
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