Psoriasis

Psoriasis is a skin condition characterized by red, dry patches of thick skin. This is an autoimmune disease that often affects the skin and the joints. It is not contagious.

At the body sites where psoriasis occurs, there are usually scaly patches of skin. These are called psoriatic plaques. At these sites, the skin has been inflamed and there is an over abundance of skin production. Here, the skin may become silvery-white in color.

This particular condition is one that can be treated. However, because it is both chronic and reoccurring, it is difficult to treat. The condition can be minor but it also can be very severe. Medical science is not sure of the causes of the condition, but most believe that there is some sort of genetic component. While there are no known causes of psoriasis, it is known that there are many factors that can further aggravate the condition. These include stress, excessive consumption of alcohol and smoking.

Psoriasis can come in the form of nail psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, and erythrodermic psoriasis.

There really is no special or complex method for diagnosing the condition. Doctors simply take a look at the skin to determine whether or not psoriasis is present. Sometimes though doctors will perform skin biopsies or scraping so that they do not mistake psoriasis for other physical conditions.

In a recent survey, approximately 71% of people said that the condition had a significant effect on their quality of life. People with this disorder often experience depression, a lot of physical discomfort, and maybe even some disability. Often times there is itching, and people with the plaques on their hands sometimes are restricted from playing sports due to the physical discomfort.

Treatment is prescribed to patients on an individual basis. Oftentimes dermatologists may try a number of different treatments in order to find out what will work the best. There are many topical treatments available, and doctors may even recommend that patients keep skin very moisturized and that they take plenty of warm baths.

While is true that these treatments do help, it must be remembered that psoriasis is a reoccurring condition. Therefore, oftentimes it becomes resistant to some medication and doctors must then find another form of medication to prescribe to the patient.

Even though some resistance can happen, medications are still helpful in easing some of the social and physical discomfort of psoriasis. With the proper treatment, the disorder can be controlled.