Psoriasis is one of the most common skin disorders. Skin cells multiply at a very fast rate, up to 10 times faster than normal.
The underlying cells on the skin’s surface die and as volume increases, it causes raised red bumps and blemishes covered with white scales.
Psoriasis generally occurs on the knees, elbows, and scalp. It may also affect the torso, palms, and soles of the feet.
The most common symptoms are:
- Bumps and areas of raised red skin that may cause painful itching.
- Disorders of the fingernails and toenails. Followed by discoloration of the nails.
- Scales or crusty skin along the scalp
Some common facts and issues surround psoriasis are:
- Psoriasis is an autoimmune disorder
This condition does not only affect your skin but can have an inflammatory effect on the whole body. It is linked to a higher risk of obesity, diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, heart attack, and stroke. People with severe psoriasis may suffer from psoriatic arthritis as well, which is a painful and disabling form of arthritis.
It is also seen that people with psoriasis have a deep effect on their mental health. They are more prone to having depression and anxiety.
- Psoriasis is mainly a genetic issue and is transmitted through heredity.
This is one of the most widely spread misconceptions among people. Psoriasis, in no way, is contagious as there are no bacteria or virus involved. Many develop it because of inherited genes and that is the reason psoriasis is seen running in families.
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Psoriasis is a chronic condition, that will affect patients for life.
A study has shown that Psoriasis is a chronic condition that continues for a lifetime in cycles. Therefore, if your skin is clear, it is possibly only for a small period of time and the plaques will re-appear soon.
Psoriasis Treatment
Unfortunately, no cure has been found for this skin disorder. However, there are many forms of treatments that a patient can be subjected to, which can help in lessening the condition. Some of the treatments are as follows:
- Salicylic acid, Steroid cream, Calcipotriene.
- Coal Tar and shampoos
- Retinoid
- Sunlight and phototherapy
- Stress relief strategies
Treatments related to skin disorders often take the time to show effective results. Therefore, you need to stay patient for the treatment to show its results. It may take few weeks to a month for results to be seen.
