Psoriasis is an inflammatory condition of the skin, the nails and the joints.
Psoriasis is an inflammatory skin condition. It is not contagious. Symptoms include red scaly patches on skin, itchiness and flaking of the skin.
The areas most commonly affected are the scalp, elbows and knees, but psoriasis can occur anywhere on the body.
There is no cure for psoriasis, but it can be completely controlled with treatment.
Symptoms of psoriasis
Symptoms of psoriasis vary from person to person. The effects may include:
Red scaly patches on most commonly scalp, elbows, knees
Itchiness
Shedding of skin.
Types of psoriasis
Plaque psoriasis – the most common form
Pustular psoriasis – a more severe form, which can be painful
Guttate psoriasis – found mostly in children
Napkin psoriasis – characteristically seen in infants between two and eight months of age
Flexural psoriasis – affects body folds and genital areas
Erythrodermic psoriasis – a severe form requiring hospitalisation.
Causes of psoriasis
A number of genes have been associated with different types of psoriasis.
If psoriasis runs in your family, infections and certain medications (lithium, beta blockers, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications and antimalarial medication) can trigger the onset of psoriasis or cause it to flare up.
Skin injury and smoking can also make certain types of psoriasis worse.
Treatment of psoriasis
Doctors may prescribe a range of treatments for the relief of psoriasis symptoms including:
Coal tar preparations, cortisone and other prescription creams
Medications such as methotrexate, acitretin, cyclosporin and calcipotriol
Ultraviolet light therapy.
Closing Statement
Psoriasis is a long term chronic skin disease that may affect a persons activities of daily life and well being to a severe degree. Seek us for help if you need more information.
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