Psoriasis Chronic

What is Psoriasis?

Psoriasis is a chronic skin condition where the skin grows more quickly than it can shed. As the extra skin builds up, it forms raised reddish patches called plaques. These plaques can be covered with silvery or white scales. The areas of plaque are usually itchy and/or sore, and in heavy cases, they can crack and bleed. Psoriasis is a long-term condition. It often goes through cycles in which flare-ups of symptoms occur, followed by periods of remission or reduced symptoms.

Types of Psoriasis

Psoriasis is classified into different types based on the affected body location or what it looks like:

• Plaque psoriasis — most common form, appears as raised, red patches covered with a silvery white scale
• Guttate psoriasis — appears as small, water-drop-shaped sores on the trunk, limbs, and scalp
• Inverse psoriasis — shows up as very red lesions in body folds, such as behind the knee, under the arm, or in the groin
• Pustular psoriasis — appears as raised bumps filled with noninfectious pus
• Erythrodermic psoriasis — extreme redness of the skin covering most of the body
• Psoriatic arthritis — joint inflammation caused by psoriasis

Causes of Psoriasis

Although the exact cause of psoriasis is unknown, it's believed to be the result of an overactive immune system. When a person has psoriasis, their immune system sends out faulty signals that speed up the growth cycle of skin cells. As a result, the skin cells pile up on the surface of the skin and form the plaques characteristic of psoriasis.

Symptoms of Psoriasis

The symptoms of psoriasis depend on the type. Plaque psoriasis, which is the most common form, can cause red patches on the skin that are covered in a silvery white scale. These patches can be itchy, dry, and painful, and they can vary in severity.

Other symptoms of psoriasis may include:

• Joint pain and swelling
• Burning or soreness of the affected skin areas
• Flaking, cracking, or bleeding of the skin
• Abnormal nail growth and discoloration

Treatments for Psoriasis

There is no cure for psoriasis, but treatments can help control and reduce symptoms. Treatments include topical medications, light therapy, systemic medications, and biologic drugs. These can reduce inflammation, itching, and pain. Treatments are tailored to the severity of the condition. Some people may require only one type of treatment, while others may need a combination of treatments. In some cases, lifestyle changes such as quitting smoking, using moisturizers, and managing stress can help manage the condition.