‍What is Psoriasis:‍

Psoriasis, a chronic autoimmune skin condition that affects people worldwide, is a skin condition where skin cells grow much faster than usual, like 10 times faster. This makes bumpy patches on the skin. If you have lighter skin, these patches can look red with white scales. If your skin is darker, the patches might look purplish, violet, or brown with gray scales. They can appear anywhere on your body but usually on the scalp, elbows, knees, and lower back. It's important to know that psoriasis can't spread from person to person, but it might run in families.

‍Types of Psoriasis

Plaque Psoriasis: 

This type is the most widespread, presenting as elevated, red skin patches covered with silvery-white scales. These patches typically form symmetrically on the body and commonly show up on the scalp, torso, and limbs, particularly on the elbows and knees.

Guttate Psoriasis: 

Commonly seen in children or young adults, this variety often presents as tiny red dots, typically found on the torso or limbs. Outbreaks are frequently prompted by infections of the upper respiratory tract, such as strep throat.

Pustular Psoriasis:

Pustules, which are filled with pus, emerge within red skin in this particular form. It typically impacts the hands and feet, but there is a variation that can spread across a considerable portion of the body. Symptoms can be induced by medications, infections, stress, or exposure to specific chemicals.

Inverse psoriasis

The smooth, red patches of this condition can be found in the skin folds, like under the breasts or in the groin or armpits. It can worsen with friction and perspiration.

Erythrodermic psoriasis

This form of psoriasis is not very common but is quite severe. It causes widespread red and scaly skin all over the body. It can be triggered by severe sunburn or the use of certain medications such as corticosteroids. Erythrodermic psoriasis usually occurs in people who already have poorly controlled psoriasis and can be extremely serious.

Causes of Psoriasis:

Psoriasis is primarily caused by a combination of genetic, immune system, and environmental factors. While the exact cause is not fully understood, certain triggers can lead to the development and exacerbation of psoriasis. Genetic tendency plays a significant role, with a family history of psoriasis increasing the risk. Immune system dysfunction, environmental factors like infections or stress, hormonal changes, lifestyle choices, and inflammatory disorders can contribute to the onset or worsening of psoriasis symptoms. Understanding these factors is crucial for effective management and improving the quality of life for individuals with psoriasis.

Some external factors that may increase the chances of developing psoriasis include:

• Infections, especially streptococcal and HIV infections
• Certain medicines, such as drugs for treating heart disease, malaria, or mental health problems
• Smoking
• Obesity

Symptoms of Psoriasis

Psoriasis symptoms can differ from one person to another, but there are a few common ones that many people experience.

• Thick, red skin patches with snowy-white scales that might cause itching or a burning sensation are frequently seen on the elbows, knees, scalp, torso, palms, and the bottoms of the feet.
• Dry, cracked skin that itches or bleeds.
• Thick, ridged, pitted nails.
• Poor sleep quality.

Individuals with psoriasis may develop a form of arthritis known as psoriatic arthritis, resulting in joint pain and swelling. The National Psoriasis Foundation approximates that 10% to 30% of those with psoriasis also experience psoriatic arthritis.

‍Diagnosis

Your doctor will conduct a thorough examination and inquire about any history of psoriasis in your family.

Physical test: It’s usually easy for your doctor to diagnose psoriasis, especially if you have plaques on areas such as your:

• Ears
• Scalp
• Elbows
• Knees
• Belly button
• Nails

This information will assist the doctor in determining whether you have psoriasis and, if so, in identifying the specific type. To eliminate the possibility of other skin conditions resembling psoriasis, your doctor may take a small skin sample for microscopic examination.

Treatment for Psoriasis

• ‍Retinoids:  Derived from vitamin A, these compounds might be beneficial for individuals dealing with moderate to severe psoriasis. They can be utilized in conjunction with phototherapy.

• ‍Methotrexate: This medication falls under a category known as antimetabolites, and you can find it in either oral or injected form. It works by dampening the immune system and reducing the pace at which cells grow and divide.

• ‍Topical therapies: Creams, ointments, lotions, foams, or solutions, particularly those incorporating corticosteroids, are frequently used for individuals with mild to moderate psoriasis.‍

• Biologic treatments: These drugs are administered through injections and they work by blocking certain immune molecules, which in turn reduces or halts inflammation.‍

• Immunosuppressants: These medications are typically prescribed for severe situations, and they function by suppressing the immune system.‍

• Other medications: Thioguanine (Tabloid) and hydroxyurea (Droxia, Hydrea) are alternative medications suitable for situations where other drugs cannot be taken. Talk with your healthcare provider about the possible side effects of these drugs.

If you are experiencing psoriasis, consult with a dermatologist for appropriate guidance and treatment.