Psoriasis is a chronic skin disease in which the immune system becomes overactive, causing skin cells to multiply at an abnormally rapid rate. It causes scaly, red, and inflamed patches on the skin. Psoriasis usually affects the hands, neck, feet, scalp, and face. In severe cases, it may also affect the nails, mouth, and areas around the genitals.
In this blog, Dr. Rasya Dixit, the best skin specialist for psoriasis treatment in Bangalore, discusses the causes, symptoms, and ways to manage psoriasis.
Keep reading to learn more!
Causes of Psoriasis
According to studies, scientists are still trying to find the exact cause of psoriasis. However, there are certain factors that may trigger it or worsen the symptoms. These include:
- Too hot or too cold climate conditions
- Stressful conditions
- Certain medicines like that for high blood pressure or cardiac conditions
- Cuts or bruises on skin that opens a wound
- Smoking and alcohol
- Immunity infections such as HIV/AIDS
- Genetics
- Obesity
Types of Psoriasis
Dr. Rasya Dixit, the best dermatologist in Bangalore, explains there are seven different types of psoriasis infection. These are:
- Localised plaque psoriasis: This typically affects the extensor surfaces of the elbows, knees, shins, and ankles, producing a few tiny to moderate circular plaques with scales.
- Scalp psoriasis: This type of psoriasis leads to round, scaly patches that occasionally spread to the hairline or the area behind the ears.
- Palmoplantar psoriasis:The psoriasis variant usually affects the hand or foot and has symptoms like eczema.
- Guttate psoriasis:Guttate psoriasis often has little to no scaling and can appear unexpectedly as a rash of tiny, crimson plaques.
- Nails psoriasis: This psoriasis type can occasionally exclusively affect the nails. The nails, in this instance, split at their distal ends and may grow thicker and ridged.
- Erythrodermic psoriasis:This is an uncommon but severe form of psoriasis in which the entire body develops red and scaly patches.
- Pustular psoriasis:This is a very uncommon yet severe form of psoriasis in which tiny pinpoint pimples appear on the skin's surface.
Symptoms of Psoriasis
Psoriasis manifests itself differently in each individual, and the symptoms might also change based on the subtype of psoriasis. It's possible that some patients won't even experience them at all. The common symptoms include:
- Dry and flaking skin
- Flaky silver or white patches
- Several raised red bumps
- Irritated skin and scalp
- A burning sensation around the areas
- Nails with divots
- Joint pain caused by inflammation
- Scalp that is white and flaky
Treatment of Psoriasis
Dr. Rasya Dixit explains that no treatment can cure the condition completely as the root cause is still unknown. The treatment of psoriasis can manage the symptoms and prevent the condition from getting worse. The treatment options include:
- Topical therapies:These include treatment options such as moisturisers, steroids, tar, salicylic acid, and anthralins. These help in subsidising the symptoms and are known to have shown substantial relief. Topical therapies can be used to manage small size patches of psoriasis.
- Oral therapies:For moderate to severe psoriasis, medications such as methotrexate, cyclosporine, hydroxyurea, and retinoids can be used.
- Laser light:Laser treatment is a good option for people with mild to moderate psoriasis. The targeted laser therapy uses ultraviolet light to treat the symptoms without damaging the surrounding skin.
With the right treatment and therapy, one can manage psoriasis easily. Also, by following a healthy lifestyle, it can be possible to prevent the condition. For the best treatment of psoriasis, one can visit Dr. Rasya Dixit, a renowned skin specialistin Koramangala at Dr. Dixit Cosmetic Dermatology, the best skin clinic in Bangalore.
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