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Psoriasis
Mild
Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune skin disorder that causes skin cells to build up more rapidly than normal, producing areas of thickened, inflamed, scaly, or itchy skin. It can affect different parts of the body and may also involve the nails or joints. Symptoms often occur in episodes called flares, with periods when the condition becomes less active.
Body System
Skin Hair & Nails
When to Seek Medical Attention
Psoriasis is usually a chronic condition and is not generally an emergency. Seek medical assessment when skin disease is extensive, painful, rapidly worsening, or interfering substantially with daily activities. Urgent care is appropriate for widespread redness with fever or severe illness, extensive blistering or skin loss, or rapidly worsening symptoms.
Symptoms
3
Causes
0
Treatments
5
Diet
3
Overview
Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune skin disorder that causes skin cells to build up more rapidly than normal, producing areas of thickened, inflamed, scaly, or itchy skin. It can affect different parts of the body and may also involve the nails or joints. Symptoms often occur in episodes called flares, with periods when the condition becomes less active.
Symptoms 3
Blisters
Brittle Nails
Loss Of Pulse
Causes
Psoriasis develops when the immune system becomes abnormally active and causes inflammation and rapid growth of skin cells. Genetic factors play an important role, and several genes are associated with susceptibility to the condition. Environmental or physical triggers can activate or worsen the abnormal immune response, although having a trigger does not necessarily mean it caused psoriasis.
Risk Factors
Psoriasis can occur in anyone, but susceptibility is greater when there is a family history of the condition. Factors that may trigger or worsen flares include infections such as strep throat, injury or irritation of the skin, stress, smoking, certain medicines, and extremes of sun exposure. A weakened immune system may also be associated with more severe disease in some people.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis is based on a patient's medical history,
symptoms, physical examination and, when necessary,
laboratory or imaging investigations.
Psoriasis is usually diagnosed clinically from the appearance and distribution of the skin lesions together with the medical history. A healthcare professional examines areas of affected skin and may ask about symptoms, previous episodes, family history, and possible triggers. A skin biopsy may sometimes be performed when the diagnosis is uncertain or another skin condition needs to be excluded.
Prevention
Key Prevention Tips
Psoriasis cannot always be prevented because genetic and immune factors play an important role
Avoiding known personal triggers may help reduce flares
Protecting the skin from injury, managing stress, avoiding smoking, following prescribed treatment, and maintaining overall health may help control symptoms
Regular medical care can also help identify and manage associated problems
Prevention Guidance
Psoriasis cannot always be prevented because genetic and immune factors play an important role. Avoiding known personal triggers may help reduce flares. Protecting the skin from injury, managing stress, avoiding smoking, following prescribed treatment, and maintaining overall health may help control symptoms. Regular medical care can also help identify and manage associated problems.
Reminder: Prevention recommendations should be tailored to your personal health status and risk factors.
Treatment & Management 5
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Medical Note: The treatment information provided is intended for educational purposes only.
Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting,
stopping, or changing any treatment.
Diet & Nutrition 3
Recommended Foods
Leafy greens
Support immune health
Omega-3 foods
Anti-inflammatory benefits
Whole grains
Support overall health
Foods to Avoid
Alcohol
May worsen symptoms
Processed foods
May increase inflammation
Medical Nutrition Note: Diet recommendations are intended for general educational purposes and should be tailored to individual health needs by a qualified healthcare professional.
Frequently Asked Questions 5
Psoriasis is an autoimmune skin disease causing thick scaly patches.
No, psoriasis is not contagious.
Stress, infections, and skin injuries may trigger flare-ups.
Yes, some patients develop psoriatic arthritis.
Yes, many treatments help reduce symptoms.
Helpful Tip: These answers provide general medical information.
Consult your healthcare provider for advice tailored to your condition.