Psoriasis

Psoriasis is a common, non-contagious skin condition. It appears in different forms and can affect any part of the body. The most common type of psoriasis causes a buildup of skin resulting in patches of thick red skin covered with silvery scales. Psoriasis is categorized as mild, moderate or severe, depending on the amount of body surface involved and how the condition affects the quality of a person's life.

Psoriasis can begin at any age. The onset is usually gradual and it is usually diagnosed between the ages of 15 and 35. No one knows exactly what causes psoriasis, but most researchers believe it is an immune system disorder. There is no cure for psoriasis. But there are many treatments that can clear psoriasis for long periods of time.

The symptoms range from a few dry, red patches of skin covered with silvery scales to large areas with pustules, intense redness, and swelling. Areas most often affected are the elbows, knees, buttocks, and scalp. Severe psoriasis may involve the hands, feet, and nails. A few people also have joint pain or arthritis. Symptoms of concern are bumps filled with pus and redness and scaling that affects all the skin. If these symptoms occur, contact your healthcare provider.

The cause of the disease is unknown, but it may be inherited. You are more likely to have psoriasis if members of your family have it. Many flare-ups are initiated by some sort of skin injury, such as a cut, burn, rash, or insect bite. Certain drugs, infections, excessive alcohol consumption, psychological stress, being overweight, and lack of sunlight can cause outbreaks. A severe sunburn, stress, or constant friction can also irritate psoriasis.

Routine activities, such as walking or dressing, become difficult. Concern about physical appearance may cause a person to feel unattractive and interfere with normal day-to-day activities.

Flare-ups can be reduced by following these tips:

• avoid skin injury
• avoid skin and internal infections
• be aware of drugs that can worsen the flare-up
• avoid stress
• maintain a normal weight
• avoid excessive alcohol
• regularly apply a good moisturizing lotion, like Eucerin, Lubriderm, or Nivea, to keep skin soft and removes scales
• soak in water with oils, Epsom salts, Dead Sea salts, or colloidal oatmeal (Aveeno)
• limit sun exposure
• use a humidifier in your home and
• choose soaps that contain moisturizing lotions (avoid those with alcohol)

If you have a severe flare-up, you should receive medical care. Many treatment options exist that include topical drugs, ultraviolet light therapy, and internal drugs. Treatment plans are individualized. All treatment methods aim to ease discomfort and slow the production of skin cells.

Last Reviewed 2005

Disclaimer: This content is reviewed periodically and is subject to change as new health information becomes available. The information provided is intended to be informative and educational and is not a replacement for professional medical evaluation, advice, diagnosis or treatment by a healthcare professional.

HIL File SKIN4975.rf2 VRS# 4975 Data Version 7.0 Copyright 1998, 2002-2003 McKesson Health Solutions LLC. All rights reserved.