What is Psoriasis?
Psoriasis is a chronic skin condition characterised by the rapid buildup of skin cells, leading to scaling, inflammation, and redness. It can manifest in various forms and severities, often causing discomfort and impacting quality of life.
What causes Psoriasis?
Psoriasis is caused by a malfunction of the immune system, which triggers an overproduction of skin cells. Instead of the typical skin cell lifecycle of around 28 days, new cells are produced every three to seven days, leading to a buildup of excess skin on the surface, causing flaky patches of skin which form scales.
While the exact cause isn’t fully understood, this immune system response is believed to be influenced by a combination of genetic predisposition and environmental triggers. Common factors that can provoke or exacerbate psoriasis include stress, infections such as strep throat, injuries to the skin like cuts or severe sunburn, certain medications, and lifestyle factors like smoking or excessive alcohol consumption.
Who does Psoriasis affect?
People of any age, sex, or race can get psoriasis, however it is most common in adults aged between 20 and 30, or 50 and 60. Psoriasis can run in families, although the exact role genetics plays in causing psoriasis is unclear.
Symptoms of Psoriasis
The symptoms of Psoriasis vary in severity, with most people only affected by small patches. However, for others it can have a huge impact on their quality of life, significantly impacting physical and emotional well-being
The most common symptom is red patches of skin covered with thick, silvery scales. These usually appear are your elbows, knees, scalp and lower back, but they can appear anywhere on your body.
Other symptoms include:
- Dry, cracked skin that may bleed
- Itching, burning, or soreness
- Thickened or ridged nails
- Swollen and stiff joints
