Psoriasis is a chronic skin condition that causes red, scaly patches of skin to form on the body. It is a common condition that affects millions of people worldwide.
The exact cause of psoriasis is unknown, but it is thought to be an autoimmune disease. This means that the body's immune system mistakenly attacks its own cells. In the case of psoriasis, the immune system attacks the skin cells, causing them to grow too quickly and form plaques.
There are a number of things that can trigger psoriasis, including:
- Stress
- Certain medications
- Skin injuries
- Infections
- Cold weather
- Smoking
While there is no cure for psoriasis, there are a number of treatments that can help to control the symptoms. These treatments include topical medications, oral medications, and light therapy.
What Causes Psoriasis
Psoriasis is an autoimmune disease that causes red, scaly patches of skin to form on the body.
- Immune system attacks skin cells
- Skin cells grow too quickly
- Plaques form on the skin
- Triggers include stress, medications, injuries
- Infections, cold weather, smoking
- No cure, but treatments can control symptoms
- Topical medications, oral medications
- Light therapy
If you have psoriasis, it is important to see a dermatologist to get the right diagnosis and treatment.
Immune System Attacks Skin Cells
Psoriasis is an autoimmune disease, which means that the body's immune system mistakenly attacks its own cells. In the case of psoriasis, the immune system attacks the skin cells, causing them to grow too quickly and form plaques.
- T cells:
T cells are a type of white blood cell that plays a role in the immune system. In psoriasis, T cells become activated and attack the skin cells.
- Cytokines:
Cytokines are proteins that are released by T cells and other cells in the immune system. Cytokines cause inflammation and the growth of new skin cells.
- Keratinocytes:
Keratinocytes are the main type of cell in the epidermis, the outermost layer of the skin. In psoriasis, keratinocytes grow too quickly and form plaques.
- Plaques:
Plaques are the red, scaly patches of skin that are characteristic of psoriasis. They are formed by the accumulation of dead skin cells, keratinocytes, and inflammatory cells.
The exact reason why the immune system attacks the skin cells in psoriasis is unknown, but it is thought to be related to a combination of genetic and environmental factors.
Skin Cells Grow Too Quickly
In psoriasis, the skin cells grow too quickly. This is because the immune system is attacking the skin cells, causing them to multiply rapidly in an attempt to repair the damage. The new skin cells are not able to mature properly, so they pile up on the surface of the skin, forming plaques.
The normal life cycle of a skin cell is about 28 days. In psoriasis, this cycle is sped up to just a few days. This means that new skin cells are constantly being produced, but they are not able to shed properly. As a result, they build up on the surface of the skin, causing thickening and scaling.
The rate at which skin cells grow in psoriasis can vary from person to person. Some people may have mild psoriasis with only a few plaques, while others may have severe psoriasis with widespread plaques that cover large areas of the body.
There are a number of factors that can trigger psoriasis flare-ups, including stress, infections, certain medications, and cold weather. When a flare-up occurs, the skin cells may start to grow even faster, leading to the formation of new plaques or the enlargement of existing plaques.
Psoriasis is a chronic condition, but it can be managed with treatment. There are a number of treatments available that can help to slow down the growth of skin cells and reduce inflammation. These treatments include topical medications, oral medications, and light therapy.
Plaques Form on the Skin
Plaques are the red, scaly patches of skin that are characteristic of psoriasis. They are formed by the accumulation of dead skin cells, keratinocytes, and inflammatory cells.
- Thickened skin:
The skin in psoriasis plaques is often thickened and red. This is because of the increased production of skin cells.
- Scales:
Plaques are often covered with silvery-white scales. These scales are made up of dead skin cells that have not been able to shed properly.
- Inflammation:
Plaques are also inflamed. This is because of the release of cytokines by T cells and other immune cells.
- Itching and pain:
Plaques can be itchy and painful. This is especially true if the plaques are cracked or bleeding.
Plaques can vary in size and shape. They can be small and round, or they can be large and irregular. Plaques can also appear anywhere on the body, but they are most common on the elbows, knees, scalp, and lower back.
Triggers Include Stress, Medications, Injuries
There are a number of things that can trigger psoriasis flare-ups, including:
- Stress:
Stress is a common trigger for psoriasis flare-ups. When you are stressed, your body releases hormones that can worsen psoriasis.
- Medications:
Certain medications can trigger psoriasis flare-ups. These medications include beta-blockers, lithium, and antimalarial drugs.
- Skin injuries:
Skin injuries, such as cuts, scrapes, and sunburn, can trigger psoriasis flare-ups. This is known as the Koebner phenomenon.
- Infections:
Infections, such as strep throat and tonsillitis, can trigger psoriasis flare-ups. This is especially true in children.
- Cold weather:
Cold weather can trigger psoriasis flare-ups in some people.
- Smoking:
Smoking is a risk factor for psoriasis and can also trigger flare-ups.
It is important to identify your triggers so that you can avoid them as much as possible. This can help to reduce the frequency and severity of your psoriasis flare-ups.
If you are experiencing a psoriasis flare-up, there are a number of things you can do to help relieve your symptoms. These include:
- Moisturizing your skin regularly
- Taking oatmeal baths
- Using over-the-counter topical treatments
- Seeing a dermatologist for prescription medications
Infections, Cold Weather, Smoking
There are a number of other factors that can trigger psoriasis flare-ups, including:
- Infections:
Infections, such as strep throat and tonsillitis, can trigger psoriasis flare-ups. This is especially true in children. It is thought that the bacteria or viruses that cause these infections can trigger an immune response that leads to a psoriasis flare-up.
- Cold weather:
Cold weather can trigger psoriasis flare-ups in some people. This is because the cold weather can dry out the skin, making it more prone to irritation. Cold weather can also slow down the production of natural oils in the skin, which can also lead to dryness and irritation.
- Smoking:
Smoking is a risk factor for psoriasis and can also trigger flare-ups. This is because smoking damages the skin and can also worsen inflammation.
If you have psoriasis, it is important to take steps to avoid these triggers. This can help to reduce the frequency and severity of your flare-ups.
Here are some tips for avoiding infections, cold weather, and smoking triggers:
- Wash your hands frequently:
This will help to reduce your risk of getting infections.
- Get a flu shot every year:
This will help to protect you from the flu, which can trigger psoriasis flare-ups.
- Dress warmly in cold weather:
This will help to protect your skin from the cold and wind.
- Use a humidifier in your home:
This will help to add moisture to the air and prevent your skin from drying out.
- Quit smoking:
This is one of the best things you can do for your overall health, and it can also help to reduce your risk of psoriasis flare-ups.
No Cure, But Treatments Can Control Symptoms
There is currently no cure for psoriasis, but there are a number of treatments that can help to control the symptoms. These treatments include:
- Topical treatments:
Topical treatments are applied directly to the skin. They include corticosteroids, retinoids, and calcipotriene.
- Oral medications:
Oral medications are taken by mouth. They include methotrexate, cyclosporine, and apremilast.
- Biologic drugs:
Biologic drugs are injected or infused into the body. They target specific parts of the immune system that are involved in psoriasis.
- Light therapy:
Light therapy involves exposing the skin to ultraviolet light. This can help to slow down the growth of skin cells and reduce inflammation.
The best treatment for psoriasis will vary from person to person. Your doctor will work with you to develop a treatment plan that is right for you.
Topical Medications, Oral Medications
There are a number of topical and oral medications that can be used to treat psoriasis. The best medication for you will depend on the severity of your psoriasis and your individual needs.
- Topical corticosteroids:
Topical corticosteroids are the most commonly used treatment for psoriasis. They work by reducing inflammation and redness.
- Topical retinoids:
Topical retinoids are derived from vitamin A. They help to slow down the growth of skin cells and reduce inflammation.
- Topical calcipotriene:
Topical calcipotriene is a synthetic form of vitamin D. It helps to slow down the growth of skin cells and reduce inflammation.
- Oral methotrexate:
Oral methotrexate is a systemic medication that is used to treat moderate to severe psoriasis. It works by suppressing the immune system.
- Oral cyclosporine:
Oral cyclosporine is a systemic medication that is used to treat moderate to severe psoriasis. It works by suppressing the immune system.
- Oral apremilast:
Oral apremilast is a systemic medication that is used to treat moderate to severe psoriasis. It works by inhibiting an enzyme that is involved in inflammation.
It is important to note that these medications can have side effects. Your doctor will work with you to weigh the benefits and risks of each medication before prescribing it.
Light Therapy
Light therapy, also known as phototherapy, is a treatment that uses ultraviolet light to slow down the growth of skin cells and reduce inflammation.
- Narrowband UVB:
Narrowband UVB is the most common type of light therapy used to treat psoriasis. It uses a specific wavelength of ultraviolet B light that is effective in treating psoriasis without causing significant side effects.
- Broadband UVB:
Broadband UVB uses a wider range of ultraviolet B wavelengths. It is not as effective as narrowband UVB, but it may be used if narrowband UVB is not available.
- Excimer laser:
Excimer laser therapy uses a concentrated beam of ultraviolet light to target specific areas of psoriasis. It is effective in treating small areas of psoriasis, such as on the hands or feet.
- PUVA therapy:
PUVA therapy combines psoralen, a medication that makes the skin more sensitive to light, with ultraviolet A light. PUVA therapy is effective in treating severe psoriasis, but it can also have more side effects than other types of light therapy.
Light therapy is usually given in a doctor's office or clinic. However, some people may be able to use home light therapy units. It is important to follow your doctor's instructions carefully when using light therapy.
FAQ
Here are some frequently asked questions about psoriasis:
Question 1: What is psoriasis?
Answer: Psoriasis is a chronic skin condition that causes red, scaly patches of skin to form on the body.
Question 2: What causes psoriasis?
Answer: The exact cause of psoriasis is unknown, but it is thought to be an autoimmune disease. This means that the body's immune system mistakenly attacks its own cells.
Question 3: Is psoriasis contagious?
Answer: No, psoriasis is not contagious. You cannot get psoriasis from touching or being near someone who has it.
Question 4: What are the symptoms of psoriasis?
Answer: The most common symptom of psoriasis is red, scaly patches of skin. These patches can be small or large, and they can appear anywhere on the body.
Question 5: How is psoriasis treated?
Answer: There is no cure for psoriasis, but there are a number of treatments that can help to control the symptoms. These treatments include topical medications, oral medications, light therapy, and lifestyle changes.
Question 6: Can psoriasis be prevented?
Answer: There is no sure way to prevent psoriasis, but there are a number of things you can do to reduce your risk of developing the condition. These include managing stress, avoiding infections, and protecting your skin from the sun.
Question 7: What is the long-term outlook for people with psoriasis?
Answer: Psoriasis is a lifelong condition, but it can be managed with treatment. Most people with psoriasis are able to live full and active lives.
Question 8: Where can I get more information about psoriasis?
Answer: There are a number of resources available to help you learn more about psoriasis. You can talk to your doctor, visit the National Psoriasis Foundation website, or join a support group.
Closing Paragraph for FAQ:
If you have psoriasis, it is important to see a doctor to get the right diagnosis and treatment. There are a number of treatments available that can help to control the symptoms of psoriasis and improve your quality of life.
In addition to medical treatment, there are a number of things you can do to help manage your psoriasis at home. These include:
Tips
In addition to medical treatment, there are a number of things you can do to help manage your psoriasis at home. These include:
Tip 1: Moisturize regularly:
Keeping your skin moisturized can help to reduce dryness and itching. Apply a thick, fragrance-free moisturizer to your skin several times a day, especially after bathing or showering.
Tip 2: Take oatmeal baths:
Oatmeal baths can help to soothe irritated skin and reduce inflammation. To take an oatmeal bath, grind 1 cup of oatmeal into a fine powder and add it to a lukewarm bath. Soak in the bath for 15-20 minutes.
Tip 3: Avoid scratching:
Scratching psoriasis plaques can irritate the skin and make it more inflamed. If you find yourself scratching, try to distract yourself with something else, such as taking a walk or listening to music.
Tip 4: Manage stress:
Stress can trigger psoriasis flare-ups. Find healthy ways to manage stress, such as exercise, yoga, or meditation.
Closing Paragraph for Tips:
Making these lifestyle changes can help to improve your psoriasis symptoms and overall quality of life. Talk to your doctor about other things you can do to manage your psoriasis.
Psoriasis is a chronic condition, but it can be managed with treatment. By following your doctor's instructions and making healthy lifestyle changes, you can live a full and active life with psoriasis.
Conclusion
Psoriasis is a chronic skin condition that causes red, scaly patches of skin to form on the body. The exact cause of psoriasis is unknown, but it is thought to be an autoimmune disease. There is no cure for psoriasis, but there are a number of treatments that can help to control the symptoms.
The main points to remember about psoriasis are:
- Psoriasis is a common condition that affects millions of people worldwide.
- The exact cause of psoriasis is unknown, but it is thought to be an autoimmune disease.
- Psoriasis is not contagious.
- The symptoms of psoriasis can vary from person to person, but the most common symptom is red, scaly patches of skin.
- There is no cure for psoriasis, but there are a number of treatments that can help to control the symptoms.
- Making healthy lifestyle changes, such as managing stress, avoiding infections, and protecting your skin from the sun, can help to reduce your risk of developing psoriasis flare-ups.
Closing Message:
If you have psoriasis, it is important to see a doctor to get the right diagnosis and treatment. There are a number of treatments available that can help to control the symptoms of psoriasis and improve your quality of life.