Things You Should Know About Psoriasis

Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune disease that speeds up the life cycle of skin cells which cause cells to build up so fast on the skin surface. This is a skin condition caused by an overactive immune system and characterized by patches of abnormal skin cells. Psoriasis is not contagious but generally thought to be a genetic disease which is triggered by environmental factors. They can grow anywhere, but mostly found in elbows, scalp, knees, and lower back. Psoriasis varies in severity from small, localized patches to complete body coverage and the symptoms are different from everyone.

The patches can heal completely and then come back throughout a person's life. The symptoms depend on the type of psoriasis the person has. The skin patches may be found purple in color in the people with darker skin.

The symptoms often worsen during winter. The common symptoms of psoriasis include red patches or rashes and inflamed skin. The skin patches are dry, itchy & scaly and sometimes it’s painful that the skin can crack or bleed.  Sometimes, it causes problems with the person’s toenails and fingernails, including pitting and decoloration. The nails may also start to crumble and detach from the nail bed. There are several types of psoriasis. These include: Plaque psoriasis, Nail psoriasis, Guttate psoriasis, Inverse psoriasis, Pustular psoriasis, Erythrodermic psoriasis, Psoriatic arthritis.

Diagnosis of psoriasis is typically based on the signs and symptoms. The main goal of treatment to stop the skin cells from growing so fast. Till now there is no cure for psoriasis, but the symptoms can be managed and controlled. The treatment includes steroid creams, light therapy, occlusion and oral medications such as biologic drugs which target specific parts of the immune system. The way of life measures, such as moisturizing, stopping smoking and managing stress, may help.