Psoriasis: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment Options

Written by Medicover Team and Medically Reviewed by Dr Anusha Nagral Reddy , Dermatologist

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Psoriasis is a chronic, noncontagious inflammatory skin disorder caused by immune system dysfunction. It leads to rapid skin cell buildup, forming red, itchy, and scaly plaques on areas like the elbows, knees, scalp, and back.

Psoriasis can appear in cycles flaring for weeks or months before subsiding. Early diagnosis and individual treatment can help improve skin health and prevent complications.

What are the Psoriasis Symptoms and Warning Signs?

The symptoms of psoriasis vary depending on the type and severity, but early recognition can help with better control and relief. While some individuals may experience mild scaling, others might face significant discomfort.

Common Symptoms

• Red patches of skin covered with thick, silvery-white scales
• Dry, cracked skin that may bleed
• Burning, itching, or soreness in affected areas
• Small scaling spots (commonly seen in children)
• Pitted or cracked nails
• Discoloration and detachment of nails

Severe Symptoms

• Stiff and painful joints (suggesting psoriatic arthritis)
• Large areas of inflamed skin
• Intense itching and skin sensitivity
• Joint swelling and fatigue

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What are the Different Types of Psoriasis?

Psoriasis manifests in several forms, each affecting different parts of the body and presenting unique characteristics:

Based on Location

• Genital Psoriasis: Appears on the genitals or inner thighs, often causing discomfort.
• Scalp Psoriasis: May indicate Psoriatic Arthritis; presents with thick scaling and inflammation.
• Facial Psoriasis: Mild patches on eyebrows, between the nose and lip, or hairline.
• Inverse Psoriasis: Occurs in skin folds like the groin, underarms, or under the breasts; worsens with sweating and friction.
• Psoriasis on Hands, Feet, and Nails: Scaling, cracking, and nail pitting; can interfere with daily tasks.

Based on Etiology

• Plaque Psoriasis: Most common; raised, red patches with silvery scales on elbows, knees, and scalp.
• Guttate Psoriasis: Often triggered by streptococcal infections; small red papules on limbs and torso.
• Pustular Psoriasis: White, pus-filled blisters surrounded by red skin; can be localized or widespread.
• Erythrodermic Psoriasis: Rare but severe; widespread redness, shedding of skin, fever, and dehydration.

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What are the Common Causes and Risk Factors of Psoriasis?

Psoriasis is primarily driven by an overactive immune system and genetic factors. Certain triggers and risk elements may worsen or initiate flare-ups.

Causes

• Immune system dysfunction
• Genetic predisposition
• Skin injuries or trauma (Koebner phenomenon)
• Streptococcal infections
• Certain medications (like lithium, beta-blockers)

Risk Factors

• Family history of psoriasis
• Stress or emotional trauma
• Smoking and alcohol consumption
• Obesity
• Cold and dry climate
• Use of specific drugs for hypertension or mental health

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How Psoriasis is Diagnosed?

Diagnosing psoriasis involves clinical evaluation and sometimes lab investigations. At Medicover, dermatologists use a complete approach for accurate diagnosis.

Diagnostic Methods Include

• Physical examination of skin, nails, and scalp
• Detailed medical and family history review
• Skin biopsy to confirm the type and rule out other conditions
• Blood tests to identify associated conditions like arthritis or autoimmune issues

Medicover's Capabilities

• Advanced dermatoscopic evaluations
• Specialized dermatology and rheumatology departments
• latest labs for quick and accurate biopsy results

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What are the Treatment Options for Psoriasis?

Treatment for psoriasis aims to reduce inflammation, clear scales, and slow down excessive skin cell growth. Medicover offers a multidisciplinary approach for effective management.

Topical Treatments

• Corticosteroids: Reduce inflammation; ideal for mild to moderate cases
• Vitamin D Analogues: Calcipotriene, calcitriol slow skin cell production
• Retinoids: Tazarotene useful but avoided during pregnancy
• Calcineurin Inhibitors: Tacrolimus and pimecrolimus used in delicate areas
• Coal Tar and Salicylic Acid: Reduce itching and scaling, especially on the scalp

Systemic Treatments (for moderate to severe cases)

• Oral Medications: Methotrexate, Cyclosporine, Acitretin
• Biologic Therapies: Target specific immune pathways; examples include etanercept, adalimumab, and secukinumab

Medicover's Approach

• individual treatment plans based on disease severity
• Monitoring for side effects and adjusting therapy accordingly
• Support from nutritionists, psychologists, and physiotherapists if needed

Typical Treatment Duration

• Topical treatments may show improvement within weeks
• Systemic therapies can take 3-6 months for full effect

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When to See a Doctor?

Knowing when to consult a dermatologist can help you get the right treatment before complications arise.

Seek Medical Help If:

• You experience persistent itching, redness, or scaling
• Over-the-counter treatments no longer work
• You develop joint pain or stiffness
• Psoriasis begins to impact your mental well-being
• You're planning to start a family and need pregnancy-safe treatments

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What is the Recovery Process After Psoriasis Treatment?

Managing psoriasis is a long-term process, but effective treatment and follow-up can lead to lasting relief.

Post-Treatment Care Includes

• Regular dermatologist visits for monitoring
• Adhering to prescribed medications or topical treatments
• Staying moisturized and avoiding harsh skin products

Lifestyle and Diet Tips

• Maintain a balanced diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids
• Reduce alcohol and tobacco use
• Practice stress management techniques like yoga or meditation

Long-Term Outlook

While psoriasis cannot be permanently cured, treatment can help achieve long periods of remission. Medicover supports patients with complete care plans, emotional support, and rehabilitation services.

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What Precautions Can Help Prevent Psoriasis?

While psoriasis cannot always be prevented, several strategies can reduce flare-ups and improve your overall quality of life.

Prevention Tips

• Avoid known triggers like cold weather or infections
• Manage stress effectively
• Moisturize regularly to prevent dry skin
• Limit alcohol and quit smoking
• Get regular skin checks

Possible Complications if Left Untreated

• Psoriatic arthritis (joint damage and disability)
• Eye disorders like uveitis
• Increased risk of heart disease and Type 2 diabetes
• Depression and reduced self-esteem

Our Experience Treating Psoriasis

At Medicover, we provide expert care to patients with psoriasis using advanced therapies and individual support. Our experienced dermatologists, rheumatologists, and care teams work together to help you regain confidence and live a healthier, more comfortable life.

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