6 things to know about psoriasis
It seems weird to think that our own immune system can accidentally attack our body’s own tissues – but this is exactly how psoriasis forms. This skin condition is known as an autoimmune condition, which means that it crops up from a combination of genetic, immune and environmental causes.
Psoriasis can appear in different ways depending on the type and severity, but there are some common features to look out for:
- Red, raised patches of skin called plaques, which can appear anywhere on the body.
- These plaques are usually covered with silvery-white scales, which can be dry and flaky.
- The affected skin can be itchy or sore and cause discomfort.
- The size and shape of the patches can fluctuate - sometimes small or large and may join together to cover larger areas of skin.
You will find psoriasis most commonly on the scalp, elbows, knees, lower back and around your nails. However, it can also show up on other parts of the body.
The tricky thing about psoriasis is that it’s more than a skin condition. While psoriasis mostly affects the skin, it is a systemic condition that can have effects on other parts of the body. For example, up to 30% of people with psoriasis may also develop psoriatic arthritis, a form of arthritis that causes joint pain and stiffness.
6 things to know about psoriasis
- Psoriasis tends to run in families, hinting at a genetic component. Specific genes have been identified as being associated with psoriasis. While not everyone with these genes will develop psoriasis, having a family history of the condition does increase your risk.
- It’s an autoimmune disease, which means that your immune system mistakenly attacks the body's own tissues. In psoriasis, immune cells, especially T-cells, become too active and cause inflammation of the skin. This inflammation flares up into quick skin cell growth, triggering red, scaly patches.
- This condition can manifest from different sources at different times. Emotional stress could spark or worsen psoriasis flare-ups, especially if you're already prone to the condition. Infections like strep throat may kickstart guttate psoriasis, particularly in kids and young adults. Ever noticed psoriasis patches at the site of a cut or scratch? That's known as the Koebner phenomenon. Even certain medications, like lithium, beta blockers and antimalarials sometimes bring on or aggravate psoriasis.
- While common triggers such as stress, skin injury and certain infections are known, what triggers a flare-up can vary from person to person. Understanding personal triggers is important to the effective management of the condition.
- The severity of psoriasis ranges from mild to severe and fluctuates over time. Some people may experience only a few small patches, while others have extensive areas of affected skin. The severity can also change due to various factors such as stress or changes in medication.
- People with psoriasis are more at risk of developing other health conditions, such as cardiovascular disease, Type 2 diabetes, metabolic syndrome and inflammatory bowel disease.
Good to know
- OTC hydrocortisone creams can help reduce inflammation and itching in mild cases of psoriasis. These are not to be used for extended periods without medical guidance, though.
- Found in creams, ointments and shampoos, salicylic acid helps remove scales and can improve the appearance of psoriasis plaques.
- Thick creams and ointments help keep the skin hydrated and reduce dryness and flaking. Look for products with ingredients like shea butter, petroleum jelly or ceramides.
- Be sure to always ask a pharmacist or doctor for advice before choosing an OTC medication. For more severe cases, you may need a prescription treatment.
Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only. Always check with your doctor or medical practitioner about any health concerns, before embarking on any fitness or nutrition programme, or using any medication.