Psoriasis

Psoriasis

Psoriasis is an autoimmune disease that causes an itchy rash with scaly patches on the scalp, nails, and joints like elbows and knees. This disease can have a significant impact on quality of life as it can be painful and interrupt sleep. Mild cases can go unnoticed, which is why it is crucial to treat psoriasis early to prevent permanent joint damage.
Person applying cream to psoriasis-affected skin on the arm, demonstrating the symptoms of psoriasis such as red, scaly patches. Treatment available at Maple Clinic.

Types of Psoriasis

There are several types of psoriasis, including:

Plaque Psoriasis

This is the most common type and causes red, dry and scaly patches on the elbows, knees, scalp and lower back.

Nail Psoriasis

Affects fingernails or toenails, causing abnormal nail growth and discoloration. In severe cases, nails may detach from the nail bed or crumble.

Guttate Psoriasis

Appears as small, pink spots on the skin and is usually triggered by a bacterial infection.

Inverse Psoriasis

Affects the skin folds of the armpits, groin, buttocks and breast. It may be worsen due to friction or sweating.

Pustular Psoriasis

Less common and is characterized by the formation of pus-filled blisters on the skin.

Erythrodermic Psoriasis

This is a rare but severe form of the condition that can cause widespread redness and scaling on the entire body.

Visual representation of different types of psoriasis: Plaque Psoriasis, Guttate Psoriasis, Pustular Psoriasis, Inverse Psoriasis, Nail Psoriasis, and Erythrodermic Arthritis, highlighting symptoms on various parts of the body.

Symptoms and Causes of Psoriasis

Psoriasis normally causes flaky patches of the skin, but other common symptoms can be dry, cracked skin that may bleed or swollen and stiff joints. The condition can be unpredictable, with symptoms appearing and disappearing over a period of weeks or months. Various factors, such as stress, infections, skin injury, or cold weather can trigger psoriasis and it is believed to be related to an overactive immune system. In people with psoriasis, the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy skin cells, resulting in red, scaly patches.
Person with psoriasis symptoms on the arm, showing red, scaly patches on the skin as a common sign of the autoimmune disease. Maple Clinic offers treatments for managing psoriasis.

Treatments Options for Psoriasis

While there is no known cure for psoriasis, there are a variety of treatments that can help manage the symptoms and improve quality of life. Treatment options may include:

Topical Treatments

This is the initial treatment method used for psoriasis patients. Creams, ointments, and shampoos are directly applied to the affected skin areas.

Phototherapy

Ultraviolet light is used to slow down the growth of skin cells.

Oral Medications

Methotrexate or cyclosporine are medications that help suppress the immune system.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is psoriasis contagious?

No, psoriasis is not contagious and cannot be spread to another person.

Can psoriasis be prevented?

There is no known way to prevent psoriasis, but avoiding triggers such as stress and injury to the skin may help reduce the frequency and severity of outbreaks.

Can psoriasis lead to other health problems?

Psoriasis has been linked to an increased risk of other health problems, such as psoriatic arthritis, cardiovascular disease and depression. Untreated psoriasis can also lead to symptoms of itchiness and pain.

Understanding the different types of psoriasis can help people with psoriasis to better manage their condition. Learn more about the types of skin conditions and treatment plans at Maple Clinic.

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