This detailed guide explores psoriasis, highlighting its causes, symptoms, and risk factors. It emphasizes the importance of medical advice and lifestyle changes to manage this chronic condition effectively, focusing on the most common forms and triggers for better understanding and control.

Psoriasis is a chronic skin condition affecting approximately 2.5% of the population in the United States and over 225 million people globally.

What Is Psoriasis?

This autoimmune disorder speeds up skin cell production, resulting in inflamed, scaly patches. While it is persistent and recurrent, there is no definitive cure.

● Nail Psoriasis: A subtype that affects nails, causing abnormal growth and brittleness, often leading to nail damage.

● Plague Psoriasis: The most prevalent form; characterized by red, dry patches covered with silvery scales, which may intensify over time.

Causes:

The exact origin of psoriasis remains unclear, but it involves immune system dysfunction, where T cells mistakenly attack healthy skin cells, leading to inflammation.

Risk Factors:

Smoking

Excessive alcohol consumption

Stress and high work-related pressure

Skin infections

Vitamin D deficiency

Sunburns

Genetics

Race

Obesity

Unhealthy diet

Certain medications like lithium, bipolar medications, and antimalarials

Symptoms:

Stiff joints

Red, inflamed skin patches

Dry, cracked skin that may bleed

Scaly spots, often in children

Thickened, ridged nails

Itching, burning sensations, soreness

It’s advisable to consult a dermatologist before starting any treatment. Adopting a healthy diet and avoiding harmful habits can help in managing symptoms. Although psoriasis is incurable, lifestyle modifications are essential for control, as recommended by healthcare professionals.