Deciphering Psoriasis

Psoriasis is defined as a continual and non-communicable skin problem. Causes of psoriasis have not yet been identified. Some people may not have visible symptoms of psoriasis while others develop red skin rashes. This red flaking skin is called psoriatic plaque. Psoriatic plaque is actually the area of inflammation of the skin and extreme skin production. Skin usually comes together in these patches and becomes silvery. Plaques commonly appear on the knees and elbows, but it may also infect other body parts namely the genitals, soles, palms, scalp and joints.

Psoriasis is a long-lasting and a chronic skin disease. The range of this ailment varies depending on the individual. Psoriasis affects the nails causing psoriatic nail dystrophy. The body may experience the swelling of joints because of psoriasis causing psoriatic arthritis. Of all the people suffering from psoriasis, 10 to 15 percent of them have psoriatic arthritis.

Psoriasis is more common to people with dry skin than those with a moisturized or oily skin. Psoriasis may also occur in a scratchy skin post any injury on the skin like a cut or a scratch. This will result in what we commonly call the Koebner phenomenon. Sometimes the skin lacks the oil that defends the skin from any diseases which results in dry skin. Consequently, persons who have dry skins are at risk of having psoriasis as the psoriasis-causing microorganism can easily grow on dry skin conditions.

Athlete’s foot and Psoriasis are two different things. It is caused due to dry skin conditions whereas athlete’s foot is a fungal infection that thrives on wet skin conditions. Unlike eczema it is generally found on the outer surface of the joints. On the other hand, Psoriasis has infective microbes which results in swelling, rashes and having a scratchy skin. This causes the skin to dry even further as the microbe takes in the moisture of the skin leaving it drier than before.

If you wish to prevent psoriasis you should avoid the usage of shower scrubs. Shower scrubs not only leave scratches on the skin but also cause abrade off the natural skin oils. Talcum powder can be used after taking a bath. The extra moisture on the skin can be soaked up by talc avoiding fungal infection. Moisturizers are good for the skin because it keeps the oil glands functioning, keeping the skin moist and infection free.

Although we are very clear about the definition of psoriasis, its causes are not yet clear. It may be genetic or be the result of a previous injury. Factors like withdrawal of systemic corticosteroid, stress, smoking, extreme alcohol consumption may worsen psoriasis. In spite of a number of medications available psoriasis is extremely difficult to eradicate due to its persistent appearance.