Psoriasis is a type of autoimmune disease in which the skin cells multiply upto 10x faster than normal.
It is considered a dry skin condition in which underlying cells that reach the skin surface die and begin to build up.
This accumulation of dead cells on the skin surface gives rise to red, raised patches covered with whitish or silvery scales.
Psoriasis is of different types:
While psoriasis can develop anywhere on the body, it normally occurs on the scalp, knees, elbows, palms, and torso. While it cannot be cured, it responds well to medical management and systemic treatments.
A few symptoms of psoriasis include:
The cause of psoriasis is unknown, and scientists are still studying how this condition develops. What we know so far is that the body’s immune system and genes play a role in its development.
- When an individual develops psoriasis, something goes wrong in a type of immune cell called the T-cell, which begins to attack the body’s own cells.
-Some research shows that shows that abnormal changes (mutation) in some genes may trigger psoriasis in individuals.
A flare-up (sudden appearance of symptoms) can be triggered by factors such as:
- Cuts, scrapes or stings
- Sunburn
- Vitamin D deficiency
- Infections (skin infections, Strep throat, etc)
- Lifestyle factors like smoking, stress, excessive alcohol consumption
- Certain medications (antimalarials, iodides, beta-blockers)
Psoriasis has a hereditary component and runs in families. So, if you have a parent, sibling, or grandparent with psoriasis, you have a higher risk of developing the condition.
However, psoriasis is not contagious, and you cannot get psoriasis by touching, having sex or swimming with someone with the condition.
Experiencing symptoms of psoriasis can be distressing, especially during flare-ups. People with psoriasis may also have other health conditions, such as hypertension, obesity, high cholesterol, type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease.
The risk of complications from psoriasis increases with its severity. People living with psoriasis must visit their doctor for an evaluation of the condition.
Psoriasis is usually diagnosed by taking a detailed medical history and evaluating your skin, hair, or nails. Based on the type and severity of your psoriasis, your doctor will recommend the most suitable treatment option for you!
Several treatments are available for psoriasis, but choosing the most effective one for you is important. Ask your dermatologist to learn more.
Management of Psoriasis can be broadly grouped into three:
Your dermatologist will combine a few treatment options for maximum effectiveness.
If you are struggling with frequent psoriasis flare-ups, you must get your condition evaluated by a dermatologist. At Hortman Clinics, our doctors are experienced in assessing and diagnosing the ideal candidates for various psoriasis treatments. To learn more about psoriasis management, book a consultation today!
Psoriasis is not a contagious disease. It does not spread from one part of the body to the other nor from one person to another.
Psoriasis is not a fungal infection. It is an autoimmune disease in which the body’s immune system attacks its own cells.
You can manage psoriasis with topical creams and ointments, phototherapy, and systemic medications. For maximum effectiveness, a combination of different treatments is most often used.
While no direct evidence exists that specific diets can cure psoriasis, avoiding trigger foods can prevent flare-ups. Consult your doctor for personalised advice.
Anyone can develop psoriasis, regardless of their age. If your child has psoriasis, they may require specialised care.
Dermatologists usually diagnose psoriasis by evaluating the individual’s skin and scalp. A medical history is also helpful for the doctor to understand the cause of psoriasis.
Psoriasis is a chronic condition and cannot be cured. Besides the most talked about symptoms, psoriasis also increases the risk of serious health conditions, like psoriatic arthritis, and cardiovascular events like stroke or heart attack.
Everything we do is tailored to your needs, this is why we take our time to take care of you and answer all your questions.
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