Psoriasis is a skin condition which speedens the life cycle of skin cells and causes these cells to form scales and red patches that are painful. Apart from red patches and scales, cracked skin that bleeds, itchiness, swollen joints and thickened nails are common symptoms of this ailment.

The common areas that can be affected by this condition are:

• Elbows and Knees

• Hands and Feet

• Scalp

• Nails

Even though it is feared by many, this ailment is not contagious. That is touching the skin of a person suffering from this condition won’t develop this condition in you.
 

Types Of Psoriasis
Plaque Psoriasis
Most of the Psoriasis patients suffer from Plaque Psoriasis which is the most common type of the condition. Also called as Psoriasis Vulgaris, it leads to red inflamed skin with scales.

Guttate Psoriasis
Unlike Plaque Psoriasis, it is not thick and small pink, red spots appear on the skin. It commonly occurs in children.

Pustular Psoriasis
A rare type of Psoriasis, it usually occurs in adults which forms pus-filled bumps on the skin and is accompanied by symptoms like fever, nausea and chills.

Erythrodermic Psoriasis
Yet another rare type but a serious one which gives the skin an appearance to be burned. The symptoms include itching and faster heart rate.

Nail Psoriasis
As the name suggests, this type of Psoriasis occurs in the nails and changes the color of the nail to yellow and causes pittings. It may even separate the nail from the bed.

Inverse Psoriasis
This type of psoriasis causes red and inflamed patches on the skin.

Causes Of Psoriasis
Research is still underway to understand fully the causes of Psoriasis. However four major factors that researchers believe trigger Psoriasis are:

Genetics
It is believed that if you have a family member who is  suffering from Psoriasis then you are at a high risk contracting the condition yourself.

Immune System
Psoriasis is an autoimmune condition where our immune system attacks the healthy cells of our body. If you are suffering from this condition then chances are that you will get Psoriasis.

Drugs
Certain medications are known to trigger Psoriasis. These generally include antimalarial drugs, lithium, indomethacin and quinidine.

Stress
Another leading cause of Psoriasis is stress. It can both wake up the condition or aggravate the ailment if already present.
 

Treatment For Psoriasis
There is no cure for Psoriasis and hence it cannot be treated completely. However with utmost care, one can control it.  Dermatologists prescribe topical medications with salicylic acid, topical retinoids, Vitamin D analogues, topical corticosteroids and anthralin along with moisturisers to Psoriasis patients.

For Psoriasis in the scalp, at Dr. Rakhavi Midhun Skin and Hair Solutions, Dr Divya prescribes a Medicated shampoo with coal tar derivatives and ingredients that help remove skin scales and manage the condition. Topical steroids also help manage scalp psoriasis.

It has been observed that this skin condition is associated with other medical conditions like diabetes, cholesterol and heart diseases. Psoriasis patients are prone to emotional distress as well which may lead to depression and anxiety.