What are the Symptoms of Psoriasis?
September 7, 2023 | by Sravani Pathakamuri | Posted in FAQ's
Psoriasis is a chronic skin condition that causes cells to build up rapidly on the skin’s surface, leading to thick, silvery scales and itchy, dry, red patches. The symptoms of psoriasis can vary in severity and can include:
- Red Patches of Skin (Plaques):
- Raised, inflamed, red lesions covered with silvery-white scales, often referred to as plaques. These patches are typically well-defined and can appear on various parts of the body.
- Itching and Irritation:
- The affected skin may be itchy, painful, or tender, causing discomfort and irritation.
- Dry, Cracked Skin:
- The skin may become dry, cracked, and prone to bleeding due to the rapid turnover of skin cells.
- Thickened or Pitted Nails:
- Joint Pain and Swelling:
- Some individuals with psoriasis may experience joint pain and swelling, a condition known as psoriatic arthritis.
- Burning or Soreness:
- Some areas of psoriasis may cause a burning or sore sensation.
- Scaling:
- Fine scales or flakes may develop on the skin surface as a result of the rapid skin cell turnover.
- Bleeding:
- Due to the dryness and scaling, the affected skin may crack and bleed.
- Discoloration:
- The affected skin may take on a reddish or pinkish color, particularly in fair-skinned individuals.
- Lesions in Flexural Areas:
- Psoriasis can occur in the skin folds, such as the armpits, groin, or beneath the breasts, causing smooth, red lesions.
- Inverse Psoriasis:
- Smooth, red patches occur in areas where the skin folds, such as the armpits, groin, or under the breasts.
- Guttate Psoriasis:
- Small, red, drop-like lesions may appear on the trunk, arms, legs, and scalp. This type is often triggered by a bacterial or viral infection.
Psoriasis can affect any part of the body, including the scalp, face, palms of the hands, soles of the feet, and genitals. The severity and type of psoriasis can vary from person to person.
If you suspect you have psoriasis or are experiencing symptoms similar to those described above, it’s important to consult a dermatologist for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan. Treatment may involve topical creams, light therapy, oral medications, or biologic drugs, depending on the severity and type of psoriasis.