Psoriasis is a skin condition or disorder, chronic in nature, that afflicts both children and adults. The causes are unknown, but it is believed that psoriasis might be an autoimmune disorder, where the body attacks itself. Understanding the signs and symptoms of psoriasis will help individuals recognize the condition and seek prompt treatment that prevents embarrassment, self-consciousness and sometimes even more severe complications such as blisters and inflammation of joints.
Skin Symptoms
In most cases of psoriasis, individuals notice reddened areas of flaky skin that are often covered with a white or silver film or layer of skin known as a scaly patch. Others experience tender patches of skin that often crack and bleed. The most common location for psoriasis to appear is on the arms, elbows, chest, back and knees. Some people develop psoriasis on the scalp, while others on the legs, although more often than not, the patches tend to appear above the waist.
Pain and Swelling
Some people diagnosed with the scaly skin disorder also experience joint pain and swelling. This is often called psoriatic arthritis, more commonly known as inflammation of the joint, which is caused by psoriasis.
Itching
Many people diagnosed with psoriasis find that the reddened, scaly patches of skin itch, and while sometimes the itch is mild, at times it can be quite aggravating. Itching leads to breaks in the skin, which may lead to infection, so individuals are cautioned to resist the urge to scratch.
Risks
Psoriasis can be hereditary, and risks for contracting the condition rise with a family history of the disorder. Triggers such as smoking, stress and sometimes alcohol can trigger flare ups. Some people find that prolonged exposure to the sun also causes flare ups.
Treatment
Psoriasis cannot be cured, as of today at least, but symptoms can be controlled by different methods, depending on the severity of the condition. Many people find relief through skin ointments or oral drugs, while others benefit from phototherapy, or artificial light.
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