Psoriasis can be best defined as a chronic autoimmune condition. It leads to the quick build-up of skin cells. Due to this build-up, the skin’s surface looks scaly. Redness and inflammation around the scales is likely to happen next. These red patches often crack and bleed. Normally, skin cells grow deep within the layers of the skin. The skin cells then rise to the surface and later fall off. However, in people with Psoriasis, the production process of skin cells is rapid. Due to this, skin cells are unable to fall off. This overproduction causes build-up of skin cells.
Scales usually develop on joints of the body like knees and elbows. The developing of these scales can also happen on other body parts like scalp, hands, feet, neck and face.
Because their symptoms are so similar, sometimes it is difficult to differentiate between Eczema and Psoriasis. This is when a biopsy can come in handy. However, not many know that Eczema and Psoriasis often respond to similar treatments. While certain types of Eczema are curable, the same cannot be said for Psoriasis.
Healthcare professionals are still unclear as to what causes Psoriasis. However, decades of research points to two main factors: Immune system and genetics. Psoriasis is an autoimmune disease. Autoimmune conditions are when the body attacks itself. In a typical human body, white blood cells destroy invading bacteria and infections. In people with Psoriasis, this mistaken attack leads to overproduction of skin cells.
On the other hand, genetics play an important role when it comes to Psoriasis. Some individuals inherit genes that make them more likely to develop this condition. If you have an immediate family member who suffers from Psoriasis, your risk of getting it is higher.
In addition to asking questions about your health, your health care expert will examine your scalp, skin and nails. Your doctor may even take a tiny sample of your skin to examine under a microscope. This biopsy will not only determine the type of Psoriasis, but will also rule out other skin disorders.
While those suffering from Psoriasis might have different triggers, here are a few common external triggers that Psoriasis patients need to watch out for.
Alcohol
Stress
Infection
Injury
Across the globe, currently available medicines do not offer a cure to Psoriasis. However, there are various remedies/medications which can be used to control and manage the symptoms of Psoriasis.
Prevent dry skin
Keep the air moist in your surroundings by using a humidifier. You can even use moisturizers to keep your skin soft and supple.
Eat healthy
Try to reduce your intake of red meat, refined sugars and carbohydrates. Nuts, seeds and omega-3 fatty acids have the ability to manage Psoriasis symptoms.
Stay away from fragrances
Most perfumes and soaps have chemicals and dyes that are harmful for skin. Avoid such products to prevent flare-ups.
Consume dietary supplements
Aloe Vera, vitamin D and fish oil help with mild symptoms of Psoriasis. However, it is best to check with your health care professional before you take any supplements.
Listed below are the 5 different types of Psoriasis.
Pustular Psoriasis:
This type affects about 3 percent of people living with Psoriasis. Its symptoms include pus-filled bumps surrounded by reddened skin.
Inverse Psoriasis:
This type affects one quarter of people who have Psoriasis. Signs of Inverse Psoriasis include inflamed skin that is smooth and not scaly.
Guttate Psoriasis:
This type affects roughly 8 percent of people living with Psoriasis. Its symptoms include small red spots caused by inflammation.
Plaque Psoriasis:
This is the most common type, affecting about 80 percent of people living with Psoriasis. Plaques can make an appearance on any part of the body as patches of inflamed skin with scales.
Erythrodermic Psoriasis:
This type of Psoriasis is rare, affecting only 2 percent of people having Psoriasis. It causes extreme redness along with shedding of skin layers in large sheets.
External conditions like injury, infections and cold weather are the common causes of Psoriasis.
