Psoriasis

Psoriasis (sore-EYE-ah-sis) is a medical condition that occurs when skin cells grow too quickly. Faulty signals in the immune system cause new skin cells to form in days rather than weeks.

The body does not shed these excess skin cells, so the cells pile up on the surface of the skin and lesions form.

Psoriasis is a common and chronic skin disorder. Plaque psoriasis is the most common type of psoriasis and is characterized by red skin covered with silvery scales and inflammation. Patches of circular to oval shaped red plaques that itch or burn are typical of plaque psoriasis.

Psoriasis is a non-contagious, chronic skin disorder that usually is a mild condition. It causes red, scaling patches on the skin. It is a chronic disorder, which means that the symptoms may last for years. They may come and go throughout life. It affects men and women equally.

Psoriasis is a noncontagious common skin condition that causes rapid skin cell reproduction resulting in red, dry patches of thickened skin. The dry flakes and skin scales are thought to result from the rapid buildup of skin cells. Psoriasis commonly affects the skin of the elbows, knees, and scalp.

Causes of Psoriasis

  • Heredity - If one parent is affected then there is 15% of chances for the child to suffer from psoriasis. If both the parents are affected then the possibility of child getting the psoriasis is 60%.

  • Throat infections trigger psoriasis.

  • Trauma or hurt on skin like cuts, bruises or burns may cause psoriasis.

  • Some medicines or skin irritants initiate psoriasis.

  • Smoking and alcohol are other two factors which activate psoriasis.