Psoriasis

1. Overview

Psoriasis is a long-lasting (chronic) skin condition where skin cells build up rapidly on the surface of the skin, forming scales and red patches that can be itchy and sometimes painful. It happens because your immune system mistakenly attacks healthy skin cells, causing them to grow too quickly. While genetics play a big role, environmental factors can also trigger it.

Psoriasis can start at any age, but it most commonly appears in adults between 15 and 35 years old. People with a family history of psoriasis are at a higher risk. It's really important to know that psoriasis is not contagious – you can't catch it from someone else, and you can't give it to anyone. Living with psoriasis can be challenging, affecting not just your skin but also how you feel emotionally and socially. We understand this can be tough, and we're here to help you learn more.

2. Symptoms

You might notice a variety of symptoms if you have psoriasis, and they can range from mild to severe. Here are some of the most common signs:

• Red patches of skin covered with thick, silvery scales: These are called plaques and are the most common sign.
• Dry, cracked skin that may bleed or itch: This can be very uncomfortable.
• Itching, burning, or soreness in the affected areas.
• Small, scaling spots: These are often seen in children and young adults (this type is called guttate psoriasis).
• Thickened, pitted, or ridged nails: Your fingernails and toenails can be affected.
• Swollen and stiff joints: This can be a sign of psoriatic arthritis, which sometimes accompanies psoriasis.
• Patches can appear anywhere, but common spots include the scalp, elbows, knees, lower back, face, palms, and soles of the feet.
• Symptoms can flare up for a few weeks or months, then lessen or go into remission for a time. Stress, illness, or cold weather can sometimes trigger flare-ups.

3. Diagnosis

Figuring out if you have psoriasis usually starts with a visit to a healthcare professional, often a dermatologist. They will typically:

• Examine your skin, scalp, and nails: The characteristic look of psoriasis plaques often makes it identifiable.
• Ask about your medical history and family history: Knowing if family members have psoriasis can be a clue.
• In some cases, a skin biopsy might be done. This involves taking a very small sample of your skin to look at under a microscope to confirm it's psoriasis and rule out other conditions.

4. Duration & Outlook

Psoriasis is generally a chronic condition, which means it's long-lasting and often lifelong. However, this doesn't mean you'll have severe symptoms all the time. Many people experience periods of flare-ups, where symptoms get worse, followed by periods of remission, where symptoms improve or even disappear for a while.

The goal is to manage the condition to keep symptoms under control and improve your quality of life. While there isn't a cure, understanding your psoriasis and its triggers can help you manage it effectively. Warning signs for complications include worsening skin symptoms that don't respond to your usual care, or new joint pain and swelling, which could indicate psoriatic arthritis. If you notice these, it's important to see your doctor.

5. Prevention

Because psoriasis is primarily caused by your immune system and genetics, you can't completely prevent it from starting if you are predisposed. However, you can take steps to help reduce the frequency and severity of flare-ups:

• Avoid known triggers: If you know certain things make your psoriasis worse (like stress or specific foods for some people), try to avoid them.
• Take care of your skin: Moisturize regularly, especially after bathing, to keep skin from getting too dry. Avoid harsh soaps.
• Protect your skin from injury: Cuts, scrapes, bug bites, and sunburn (known as the Koebner phenomenon) can sometimes trigger a flare-up at the site of the injury.
• Manage stress: Stress is a very common trigger for many people. Finding healthy ways to cope with stress, like exercise, meditation, or hobbies, can be beneficial.

6. Causes & Triggers

Psoriasis is thought to be an immune system problem where infection-fighting cells (T-cells) mistakenly attack healthy skin cells. This causes the body to make new skin cells too quickly – in days rather than weeks. These extra cells pile up on the skin's surface, forming the characteristic patches.

Genetics play a significant role; if you have a family member with psoriasis, your risk of developing it is higher. However, not everyone with a genetic predisposition will get psoriasis.

Common triggers that can cause psoriasis to flare up or worsen include:

• Stress: This is a major trigger for many.
• Skin injury: Cuts, scrapes, bug bites, severe sunburn, or even tattoos or piercings.
• Infections: Such as strep throat or skin infections.
• Certain medications: Including lithium, some high blood pressure medications (like beta-blockers), antimalarial drugs, and iodides.
• Cold, dry weather: This can dry out the skin and make psoriasis worse.
• Heavy alcohol consumption.
• Smoking.

Anyone can develop psoriasis, but it often starts between the ages of 15 and 35. Having a family history is a key risk factor.

7. When to see a doctor

It's always a good idea to see a healthcare professional if you notice any new, unexplained rash or skin changes. For psoriasis, you should definitely make an appointment if:

• Your rash is widespread or severe.
• Your skin is very painful, itchy, or bleeding, and it's making daily activities difficult.
• You're concerned about the appearance of your skin.
• You have symptoms of psoriatic arthritis, such as swollen, stiff, or painful joints.
• Your current ways of managing it aren't working, or your symptoms are getting worse.
• The condition is causing you significant distress or affecting your mental well-being.

A dermatologist is a doctor who specializes in skin conditions and can provide an accurate diagnosis and help you understand how to manage your psoriasis. Don't hesitate to reach out to them; they are there to help you.

8. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

• Is psoriasis contagious? No, psoriasis is not contagious. You cannot catch it from someone else, nor can you pass it on to others through touch or any other means.
• Can psoriasis be cured? Currently, there is no cure for psoriasis. However, it is a manageable condition, and many people can achieve significant clearing of their skin and live comfortably by understanding and managing their symptoms and triggers.
• Does diet affect psoriasis? While there's no specific "psoriasis diet" proven to work for everyone, some people find that certain foods may trigger their flare-ups, while others (like those rich in omega-3 fatty acids) might be helpful. Maintaining a healthy, balanced diet is always good for overall health. If you suspect a food trigger, discuss it with your doctor.
• Is psoriasis just a skin problem? While it primarily affects the skin, psoriasis can also impact other parts of the body. About 30% of people with psoriasis may also develop psoriatic arthritis, which causes joint inflammation. It can also affect emotional well-being due to its visible nature.
• Can stress make psoriasis worse? Yes, stress is a very common trigger for psoriasis flare-ups. Learning stress-management techniques can be an important part of managing the condition.

This information is for educational purposes and should not replace advice from a healthcare professional. If you have concerns about your skin, please consult a doctor or dermatologist.