Experiences with
PsoriasisWhy it happens
People with psoriasis have an increased production of skin cells.
Skin cells are normally made and replaced every 3 to 4 weeks, but in psoriasis this process only takes about 3 to 7 days.
The resulting build-up of skin cells is what creates the patches associated with psoriasis.
Although the process is not fully understood, it's thought to be related to a problem with the immune system.
The immune system is your body's defence against disease and infection, but it attacks healthy skin cells by mistake in people with psoriasis.
Psoriasis can run in families, although the exact role genetics plays in causing psoriasis is unclear.
Many people's psoriasis symptoms start or become worse because of a certain event, known as a trigger.
Possible triggers of psoriasis include an injury to your skin, throat infections and using certain medicines.
The condition is not contagious, so it cannot be spread from person to person.
Treating psoriasis
There's no cure for psoriasis, but a range of treatments can improve symptoms and the appearance of skin patches.
Your doctor will ask you about how much the condition is affecting your everyday life.
In most cases, the first treatment used will be a topical treatment, such as vitamin D analogues or topical corticosteroids. Topical treatments are creams and ointments applied to the skin.
If these are not effective, or your condition is more severe, a treatment called phototherapy may be used. Phototherapy involves exposing your skin to certain types of ultraviolet light.
In severe cases, where the above treatments are ineffective, systemic treatments may be used. These are oral or injected medicines that work throughout the whole body.
SymptomsMedical treatmentsCausesThe main symptoms of psoriasis are patches of dry skin that are covered in silvery-white or grey scales.
Mild psoriasis can be treated with creams and ointments. If these do not work, you may need light treatment (phototherapy) or stronger medicines.
Psoriasis is thought to be caused by a problem with the immune system, which causes your body to make too many skin cells.
Main symptoms of psoriasis
Psoriasis typically causes patches of skin that are dry and covered in scales.
On brown, black and white skin the patches can look pink or red, and the scales white or silvery. On brown and black skin the patches can also look purple or dark brown, and the scales may look grey.
Some people find their psoriasis causes itching or soreness.
There are several different types of psoriasis. Many people have only 1 type at a time, although you can have 2 different types together. One type may change into another or become more severe.
Most cases of psoriasis go through cycles, causing problems for a few weeks or months before easing or stopping.
You should see a GP if you think you may have psoriasis.
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