Psoriasis

Understanding Psoriasis

Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune skin disease that accelerates skin cell turnover, leading to red, scaly plaques, inflammation, and discomfort. It is a lifelong condition that fluctuates between flare-ups and remission. While primarily affecting the skin and nails, psoriasis is also linked to systemic inflammation and associated conditions like psoriatic arthritis, cardiovascular disease, and metabolic disorders.

The immune system mistakenly triggers overproduction of skin cells, causing thickened, inflamed patches. Although the exact cause is unknown, genetics, immune dysfunction, and environmental triggers play key roles in disease development.

Common Signs and Symptoms of Psoriasis

• Plaque Formation (Psoriatic Lesions):

  • Raised, red patches covered with silvery-white scales.
  • Commonly appears on the scalp, elbows, knees, lower back, and trunk.
  • May be itchy, painful, and prone to cracking or bleeding.

• Skin Dryness and Cracking:

  • Affected areas may become extremely dry, leading to cracks and bleeding.
  • Aggravated by cold weather, low humidity, and skin trauma.

• Nail Changes:

  • Pitting, thickening, discoloration, or separation of nails from the nail bed (onycholysis).
  • More common in psoriatic arthritis patients.

• Scalp Psoriasis:

  • Flaky, itchy, and inflamed patches on the scalp, sometimes extending to the forehead, neck, and ears.
  • Can be mistaken for severe dandruff.

• Itching and Burning Sensation:

  • Persistent itching, burning, or soreness in affected areas.
  • Can impact sleep and daily activities.

• Joint Pain and Stiffness (Psoriatic Arthritis):

  • Inflammation in joints, leading to swelling, stiffness, and pain.
  • Commonly affects the fingers, toes, lower back, and sacroiliac joints.

• Triggers and Worsening Factors:

  • Stress, infections, cold weather, certain medications, alcohol, and smoking can exacerbate symptoms.
  • Skin injuries (scratches, sunburns, bug bites) can trigger new lesions (Koebner phenomenon).

This information is provided as a resource and is not intended to diagnose a condition or prescribe treatment. Please discuss any symptoms you may exhibit with your physician.