Psoriasis
Psoriasis is a disease with an unclear cause that is characterized by inflammation caused by the dysfunction of the immune system that causes inflammation to the body. When the immune system speeds up skin cell growth, psoriasis skin falls off within 3-4 days whereas regular skin would take a month to fall off. Some psoriasis can leave you with an itch, burn, or sting & it can be commonly found on elbows and knees as well as the scalp area. You are also more prone to getting other conditions like psoriatic arthritis, cardiovascular problems, obesity, high blood pressure, or diabetes.
Different Types Of Psoriasis
- Guttate Psoriasis – Small roundish spots that are sometimes scaly are called papules. You can develop papules on your arms, legs, torso, face, ears, and scalp. This occurrence could develop after strep throat & it’s possible to have strep throat without the symptoms so make sure to get tested for strep throat if you develop this type of psoriasis.
- Pustular Psoriasis – The first type of pustular psoriasis is GPP or Generalized Pustular Psoriasis. This can develop quickly with symptoms including fever, chills, itching, change of heart rate, fatigue, or muscle weakness. The second type is called Localized Pustular Psoriasis & it branches off into two parts depending on the location. Palmoplantar Pustular Psoriasis affects the hands and/or soles of the feet and Acrodermatitis Continua of Hallopeau affects the tips of fingers and/or toes.
- Plaque Psoriasis – This type is the most common form of psoriasis. It looks like rough, red patches with a build-up of dead skin which could possibly be itchy or painful. This can appear anywhere on the body but most commonly on the scalp, knees, elbows, or torso. This psoriasis is usually symmetrical affecting both sides of the body.
- Inverse Psoriasis – Also known as intertriginous psoriasis, this appears on skin of color as lesions of purple or brown surrounding the skin, located in body folds. On Caucasian skin it appears bright red & it feels smooth and looks shiny. These locations are very sensitive so any rubbing or sweating can further irritate the affected areas of psoriasis & is most commonly found in overweight people or people with deep skin folds.
- Erythrodermic Psoriasis – This is the most life-threatening type of all the other types. Erythrodermic psoriasis disrupts your body’s temperature or fluid balance & could lead to edema or shivering episodes in parts of the body. You may also have a higher risk of infection, heart failure, or pneumonia. See a doctor if any of the following occurs:
- Severe redness/discoloration
- Exfoliation occurring in larger portions instead of smaller scales
- Burned skin
- Increased heart rate
- Sever itching/pain
- Unstable body temperature
Triggers
Although Psoriasis isn’t contagious, many different triggers can start up psoriasis symptoms including:
- Injury to skin, such as a cut, scrape, or insect bite
- Excessive amount of alcohol
- Smoking
- Stress
- Hormonal changes such as puberty and menopause
- Certain medications
- Throat infections
- Other immune disorders
Types Of Treatment
1. Topical – ointments or creams
2. Phototherapy – using an ultraviolet light on affected areas of the skin
3. Systemic – oral or injected medications that work throughout the body.
In case of doubt, persistence of symptoms, treatment, or any other discomfort, please consult your medical provider.