Information About Psoriasis

Psoriasis is a skin disease that is connected with the immune system. It is a chronic condition that can be mildly irritating at best and debilitating at worse. It can be hereditary and people who have a predisposition to it might also be affected by a number of factors within the environment. It most certainly is not contagious, which means that it cannot be spread from one person to another through contact. Unfortunately, this condition can also affect the joints, causing psoriatic arthritis. This can affect how you perform every day tasks, causing pain and inflammation. One of the main complaints of the disease is dry, red, itchy skin. It can also be seen on the fingernails and the scalp. Although there is no outright cure, there are ways the symptoms can be managed so that relief can be felt.

Plaque psoriasis is generally the most common form. Lesions can form on any part of the body, causing rough scaly patches that can be very painful. It can happen to children or adults. There are a few risk factors that can trigger it. Stress, cuts and scrapes, high alcohol intake, and certain types of medications for high blood pressure can contribute to the condition. Bacterial infections and obesity have also been linked to it. Keep in mind that there is most likely some type of hereditary link, so if someone in your family has it, there may be a chance that you will develop it as well.

Fortunately, there are a number of treatments that can help alleviate the uncomfortable symptoms of this disease. Your doctor may prescribe some type of steroids, especially if you have joint problems. There are also topical medications available. Soaking in epsom salts may also help. Putting petroleum jelly on the affected areas may also decrease discomfort. Light therapy in the form of daily exposure to sunlight is also a popular treatment. Overall, this is a treatable condition that is different for everyone, so keep your mind and your treatment options open so that you can develop the best plan that works for you.