What is psoriasis?
Psoriasis is an inflammatory skin condition where white blood cells begin attacking normal healthy skin cells alongside bacteria, causing the skin cells to age far more rapidly than they normally would. Skin cells normally develop slowly underneath the skin before gradually rising to the surface. Because psoriasis produces a sudden buildup of skin cells, it results in red, scaly patches of skin that itch and flake.
Are there different types of psoriasis?
Psoriasis can develop nearly anywhere on the body in different forms. While there are many types of psoriasis, the most common include:
Plaque psoriasis
The most common form of psoriasis, plaque psoriasis forms red patches of flaky skin with silver scales. Most of these scales develop over joints, such as the elbows, hands, and feet. It can also affect the face and neck.
Nail psoriasis
Nail psoriasis can thicken your fingernails or toenails. Over time, they may also develop small pinprick holes and change in color.
Guttate psoriasis
Typically found in younger individuals, guttate psoriasis forms small teardrop-shaped red scales and blotches.
Inverse psoriasis
Inverse psoriasis primarily shows up in the crevices throughout your body, such as underneath the breasts, armpits, and groin.
Pustular psoriasis
Pustular psoriasis causes scaly red patches with tiny pus-filled blisters on the hands and feet.
Erythrodermic psoriasis
Erythrodermic psoriasis can be life-threatening without treatment. This uncommon form of psoriasis is an aggressive inflammatory response that produces rashes throughout the entire body.
Psoriatic arthritis
Psoriatic arthritis causes joint inflammation underneath the skin, leading to chronic pain and discomfort.
What causes psoriasis?
Psoriasis is an autoimmune condition that typically links to genetics. If somebody in your immediate family has psoriasis, you’re more likely to have the condition. While you can’t prevent psoriasis, there are certain factors that can trigger a flare-up, such as:
- Stress
- Alcohol
- Tobacco use
- Blood pressure medications
- Lithium
- Inflammation medications
During your initial visit at Idaho Skin Institute, your dermatologist can help identify your potential triggers to reduce your chances of a flare-up.
How do dermatologists treat psoriasis?
While psoriasis is a lifelong condition that currently has no cure, certain treatments can help relieve discomfort and minimize flare-ups.
The dermatologists at Idaho Skin Institute can recommend a number of topical ointments such as corticosteroids, retinoids, and general moisturizers to calm and soothe inflamed psoriasis patches.
Light therapy can also help treat psoriasis; it uses a special UV light to eliminate the overproduction of white blood cells and prevent the rapid aging of skin cells.
To learn more about psoriasis and receive treatment, call Idaho Skin Institute, or book an appointment online today.
