Psoriasis
Psoriasis is a common skin disease in which the life cycle of skin cells changes Psoriasis causes cells to accumulate on the surface of the skin The extra cells form thick, silvery crusts and red patches that are itchy and sometimes painful.
Psoriasis is a chronic, long-term disease Sometimes, psoriasis symptoms get better, but then flare up again
The main goal of treatment is to slow down the rate of accumulation of skin cells There is no cure, but treating psoriasis makes a big difference in the patient's condition Lifestyle changes, using an over-the-counter cortisone cream, and exposing the skin to the sun for a short time sometimes relieve symptoms.
The cause of psoriasis is not completely known, but there is likely to be a problem with the immune system More specifically, one type of white blood cell - T lymphocyte - is involved Normally, this cell fights bacteria and other foreign microorganisms throughout the body If you have psoriasis, the lymphocyte "mistakenly" attacks the body's own healthy cells, as it does with an infection.
Hyperactivity of T cells becomes the cause of other immune processes As a result, through dilation of blood vessels, more white cells are brought to the injured areas, close to the skin These changes are manifested by the overgrowth of skin cells and the proliferation of white blood cells, including lymphocytes A long cycle is formed in which the cells of the outer layer of the skin reproduce very quickly, in days instead of weeks Dead skin cells can't be shed as quickly, causing thick, scaly patches to form on the skin's surface The cycle generally does not stop unless you start treatment
It is not known exactly what causes the disruption of lymphocyte function Scientists have identified the role of certain genes in the development of psoriasis, but environmental factors are also likely to play a role
Psoriasis Triggers Psoriasis typically worsens due to some trigger, so it is important to know them These include:
- Infections such as a sore throat or skin infection
- Skin injury, cut, scratch, bite, sunburn
- Stress
- Cold weather
- Tobacco
- Excessive alcohol consumption
Signs and symptoms of psoriasis vary among patients, but generally include the following:
- Red spots covered with silvery crusts
- Small crusty spots - in children
- Dry, cracked skin, sometimes with bleeding
- Itching, burning, soreness
Most types of psoriasis are characterized by cyclicity The condition is difficult for several weeks or months, and then remission occurs
There are several types of psoriasis These are:
- Plaque Psoriasis This is the most common form and is characterized by dry, raised, red patches covered by a silvery crust. The spots are itchy, sometimes painful, and can appear anywhere on the skin, including the genitals and soft tissues around the mouth. Several or many foils may be noted
- Nail Psoriasis Psoriasis also affects fingernails and toenails, causing indentation, abnormal nail growth and discoloration. Psoriatic nails become weak and may detach from the nail pit - onycholysis In severe cases, nails break
- Psoriasis of the scalp Psoriasis is manifested by red spots, silvery-white crusts and itching on the scalp. Often, spots extend beyond the hairline You may notice crusts of dead skin cells on your shoulders, especially after a sunburn
- Psoriasis This type is mainly found in adults and children The provoking factor is often a bacterial infection, for example streptococcal throat inflammation The condition is characterized by small, teardrop-shaped rashes on the body, hands, feet, and scalp The rash has a thin crust, and compared to other types, the skin is not strongly thickened It is possible to develop a single case or a cycle of episodes
- Inverse psoriasis This type causes lesions mainly in the armpits, groin, under the breast and in the genital area. Inverse psoriasis is manifested by smooth red spots with an inflammatory reaction The condition is aggravated by friction and perspiration Fungal infections may cause psoriasis complications
- Pustular psoriasis This rare form presents as widespread patches (generalized pustular psoriasis) or small areas on the hands, feet or fingers Pustular psoriasis usually develops quickly, characterized by a purulent rash, within a few hours of skin redness The rash may come and go frequently Generalized pustular psoriasis sometimes causes fever, chills, severe itching, and diarrhea.
- Erythrodermic psoriasis This is the rarest form of psoriasis and can appear all over the body as a red, scaly rash that is accompanied by burning or itching.
- Psoriatic arthritis In addition to inflammatory skin conditions and scaly patches, psoriatic arthritis causes nail depressions and joint swelling, pain Symptoms can be mild or severe Psoriatic arthritis can affect any joint The disease is often not as severe as other conditions that cause arthritis, but it can cause swelling, damage, and in severe cases, even permanent deformity.
When to see a doctor
If you think you may have psoriasis, see your doctor for an examination Also, consult a doctor if you have already been diagnosed with psoriasis and:
- The disease causes severe discomfort and pain
- It is difficult for you to perform daily activities because of the disease
- You are concerned about the visual aspect of the skin because of psoriasis
- Psoriasis causes joint problems: pain, stiffness, movement You may need a change in medication or combination therapy to control your psoriasis
