Psoriasis

What is psoriasis?

Psoriasis (say: sore-eye-a-sis) is a very common skin condition. It causes large red or purple patches with a scaly layer on your skin that looks thick and bumpy. They are usually on the elbows, knees and scalp, but may appear on other body parts. In severe cases, the patches may appear on your whole body.

What causes psoriasis?

No one knows the exact cause of psoriasis. The reason your skin becomes thick and red is that the skin cells are growing faster than normal. Because of their rapid growth, there isn't enough time for the cells to shed (fall off). As a result, the cells pile up on top of one another, making thick, scaly patches on your skin.

Who can get psoriasis and is it contagious?

Anyone can get psoriasis. Men, women and children of all ages and races can get psoriasis. The condition isn't contagious but is sometimes hereditary.

Does psoriasis affect your quality of life?

For the most part, people with psoriasis function normally. Sometimes they may experience low self-esteem as psoriasis is often misunderstood by the public, which can make social interactions difficult. This may lead to emotional reactions such as anxiety, anger, embarrassment and depression. Psoriasis that is visible on the skin surface may affect certain people depending on the type of work they do.

Can psoriasis be cured?

No, there is no cure for psoriasis. But proper treatment can control the condition so it doesn't negatively affect your daily life.

What treatments are available for psoriasis?

Keeping your skin well moisturised with over-the-counter products is a good first step. You may use prescription creams, ointments and lotions (called topical medicines) to apply on the affected areas of your body. Special shampoos are used for psoriasis on the scalp. In more severe cases, your doctor will recommend medication.

Other treatments include a special type of ultraviolet light therapy. Exposing your affected skin to sunlight can also help. You must still, however, apply sunscreen on the parts of your skin that aren't affected by psoriasis, especially if you plan to spend long periods in the sun. It's especially important to put sunscreen on your face.

What worsens psoriasis?

Stress, infection and some medication can worsen the condition. These medicines include lithium, and certain high blood pressure medicines, such as beta blockers and angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors, as well as pain relievers like some non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (such as ibuprofen).

How can I learn more about psoriasis?

• Consult your family doctor.
• You may find information about psoriasis at your public library or on the internet.

References

1. ASHA G et al. 1 February 2000. Questions about psoriasis. American Family Physician, 61(3). 
2. NATIONAL PSORIASIS FOUNDATION. Website: http://www.psoriasis.org