Psoriasis is an inflammatory skin problem that usually manifests as dry, itchy, scaly patches of skin (plaques and erythematous papules covered with silvery scales). The condition usually occurs when the life cycle of skin cells accelerates. As a result, skin cells quickly accumulate on the skin’s surface, forming flakes and red spots that are usually painful and itchy.
This is usually a chronic problem that comes and goes, and therefore the treatment goal is to slow the growth rate of skin cells and manage the symptoms. There is no known cure for psoriasis, but by working with a trusted dermatologist you can learn more about the lifestyle measures you can take to manage the symptoms. Various lifestyle changes, along with adding certain supplements, can control psoriasis and reduce flare-ups. Below is a discussion of some important things to know about psoriasis.
Signs and symptoms of psoriasis
The signs and symptoms of psoriasis can vary from person to person. They can also vary from one type of psoriasis to another. Some common forms of psoriasis include:
- Plaque psoriasis – thick, flaky patches of skin, often on the knees, back, scalp or elbows
- Nail psoriasis – discoloration of the skin under the nails, pitting of the nails and changes to the nails
- Guttate psoriasis – appears after an infection (such as strep throat), is common in young adults and usually goes away completely
- Inverse psoriasis – smooth, shiny, discolored patches of skin where the skin rubs together (armpits, abdomen, under the breasts, groin)
- Erythrodermic psoriasis – this is a rare and potentially fatal form in which psoriasis spreads over most of the body
- Psoriatic arthritis – causes swollen, painful joints, often fingers and toes
In general, the most common signs and symptoms of psoriasis are:
- Red areas of the skin covered with silvery, thick scales
- Small flaky spots, especially in children
- Burning sensation, itching or pain
- Stiff or swollen joints
- Thickened, ribbed or pitted nails
The areas affected by psoriasis can range from small patches of dandruff-like scales to huge eruptions that cover large areas of the body. You should seek medical attention if:
- The symptoms cause significant pain or discomfort
- If the condition makes it more difficult for you to perform simple routine tasks
- If the symptoms cause you aesthetic concerns
- If the problem is causing you joint problems such as swelling and pain
You can also seek medical advice from a dermatologist if symptoms do not improve with medications. You may need other medications or even a combination of treatments to treat psoriasis.
Reasons of psoriasis
The cause of psoriasis has yet to be fully understood. However, it is believed to be related to the immune system’s problems with T cells and other white blood cells. Psoriasis typically starts to worsen with triggers such as:
- Tension
- Smoking
- Drinks
- Heavy alcohol use
- Vitamin D deficiency
- Injury to the skin
- Infections, such as skin infection or strep throat
- Certain medications such as lithium, which is commonly prescribed to treat bipolar disorder, malaria and high blood pressure.
The bottom line
Overall, it is clear that psoriasis is a skin condition that develops due to an increase in the rate of skin cell life cycle. The condition is chronic and therefore treatment is only aimed at slowing the life cycle of the skin cells and controlling the symptoms. So if you have symptoms of psoriasis, working with a trusted dermatologist can allow you to access the right medication and learn the best lifestyle decisions to make to avoid the triggers and get relief from the symptoms. If you are looking for a reliable dermatologist to help you treat 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
The post Psoriasis: Symptoms and Causes appeared first on Alternative Medicine Magazine.