Psoriasis is a skin disease that causes symptoms such as itchy, red, scaly skin. It is important to understand and recognize the symptoms of psoriasis because they can be difficult to distinguish from other skin conditions and can be more easily treated if detected early.
The National Psoriasis Foundation says psoriasis is an autoimmune disease that causes symptoms such as redness, itching, and scaling of the skin. These symptoms are usually more severe and more common in people between the ages of 10 and 35, but can affect anyone.
Psoriasis is a very common skin disorder , affecting more than 125 million people worldwide. This disorder is characterized by typical skin lesions, redness and scaling, which can cause severe discomfort and loss of self-esteem in the patient.
Although psoriasis is a chronic and incurable condition, it is often associated with complications such as psoriatic arthritis, affecting the joints. However, there are effective treatments to manage this condition and improve the well-being and quality of life of those affected.
Itching
Pruritus is an itchy sensation that is often associated with psoriasis symptoms. Pruritus can be very bothersome and can lead to scratching, which can make psoriasis symptoms worse.
The best way to relieve itching is to use gentle, non-irritating skin care products, such as those made by brands like Neutrogena and DermaVeen. It's also important to keep your skin hydrated by applying a skin-friendly moisturizer every day.
Itching
Pruritus (itching) is one of the most characteristic symptoms of psoriasis and can be intense and bothersome. Itching is usually worse at night and can affect sleep.
Itching can be a sign of another skin condition such as atopic eczema or plaque psoriasis, which is essential to consider. The best way to relieve itching is to use skin care products that are gentle and non-irritating.
Red plates
Red lesions are one of the most common signs of psoriasis and can be particularly noticeable. These lesions appear as scaly, typically red patches, often covering large areas of the body.
These plaques are particularly prominent on the scalp and face, genitals, hands or feet, and nails , and may be accompanied by itching and irritation.
Sometimes these red lesions can be confused with a milder form of the psoriatic condition, known as plaque psoriasis or seborrheic psoriasis, characterized by smaller, less obvious plaques.
Flare-ups can worsen the appearance and discomfort, often due to an exacerbated immune response affecting the life cycle of skin cells.
Dry skin
Dry skin is another common symptom of psoriasis, especially on the hands and feet. Dry skin is usually accompanied by redness, itching and scaling of the skin. It is important to keep it hydrated by applying a skin-friendly moisturizer every day, such as Eucerin, to prevent the skin from becoming drier and more susceptible to infection. Applying creams containing steroids such as cortisone can also help relieve the itching and scratching associated with dry skin.
Scales on the skin
Scales are another common symptom of psoriasis and are usually seen on areas affected by psoriasis. Scales are usually small and dry and can be white or silvery.
Scales can build up and form larger patches when combined with other symptoms such as redness and itching. Scales can be difficult to treat, but can be treated with topical medications such as steroid creams.
Skin that becomes thicker
A characteristic of psoriasis is the skin becoming thicker and rougher. The skin may also become drier and flake more easily. Red patches may also develop more quickly, which can lead to additional itching and irritation.
Treatments for psoriasis include topical medications, such as steroid creams, which can help relieve symptoms and slow the rate of growth of red patches.
Skin discoloration
Another characteristic of psoriasis is discoloration of the skin around the plaques. The skin around the plaques may become darker or paler, which can be very noticeable and bothersome.
Psoriasis treatments can help fade skin discoloration, but it can be more difficult to treat if it is severe. Good skin hygiene and gentle, non-irritating skin care products can help prevent skin discoloration.
Scratches
Scratching can be a consequence of the itching associated with psoriasis and can make the symptoms worse. Scratching can also cause additional inflammation and redness and can easily lead to infections.
It is important to treat scratches immediately and keep them clean and moisturized to prevent worsening of symptoms. Gentle, non-irritating skin care products can help relieve itching and prevent scratching.
Swellings
Swellings can also be a manifestation of psoriasis and may be accompanied by redness and itching. Swellings may be more visible around scarlet areas and can be very bothersome.
Psoriasis treatment includes topical medications such as steroid creams that can help relieve symptoms and prevent the scarred areas from spreading.
It is also important to keep the epidermis hydrated by applying a moisturizer suitable for the epidermis every day.
Pain
Although this manifestation is not as common as others, pain can be a manifestation of psoriasis and may be associated with the scarlet areas.
Pain can be very bothersome and may be accompanied by other manifestations such as redness and itching. The most common treatments for psoriasis include topical medications such as steroid creams, oral medications, UV treatments, and nutritional interventions.
It is important to consult a doctor to find the care best suited to your case.
Psoriasis is a common skin disorder that presents with signs such as redness, itching, scaling, and scarlet areas. These symptoms can be very bothersome and can vary depending on the type of psoriasis you have, but they can usually be treated with topical medications, oral medications, UV treatments, and nutritional interventions.
It is important to consult a doctor to find the most suitable care for your case and to take care of your skin using gentle, non-irritating skin care products.
FAQ: Psoriasis and stress
What are the most common symptoms of psoriasis?
The most common symptoms of psoriasis are red, scaly patches of skin that can appear on the scalp , elbows, knees, and lower back.
Can my psoriasis be bothersome?
Yes, psoriasis can be bothersome, especially when the patches are painful and inflamed. Psoriasis can also cause intense itching and irritation.
What are the risk factors for psoriasis?
The main risk factors for psoriasis are age, heredity, and stress. People between the ages of 15 and 35 are most likely to have psoriasis. People who have relatives with psoriasis are also at higher risk. Stress can also trigger and worsen psoriasis.
How to relieve psoriasis symptoms?
Available treatments for psoriasis include kerato-reducing creams, baths, injections and oral medications. Treatments can be used to relieve symptoms and reduce inflammation.
What are the possible side effects of psoriasis treatments?
Possible side effects of psoriasis treatments include redness, itching, dryness, and irritation of the skin. In some cases, treatments can also cause more serious side effects such as nausea and headaches.
What factors can make psoriasis worse?
Factors that can make psoriasis worse include stress, smoking, alcohol, and infections. Hormonal changes and seasonal changes can also affect psoriasis.
Can my psoriasis be contagious?
No, psoriasis is not contagious. It is not transmitted from one person to another.
Are there any foods I should avoid if I have psoriasis?
Yes, certain foods can make psoriasis worse. It is recommended to limit the consumption of dairy products, gluten products, sugar, fried foods and foods high in saturated fat.
