Psoriasis: A Chronic Disease Caused by Abnormality of Immune System

Psoriasis is considered as a long term chronic disease that is caused by an abnormality of the immune system. It is a common type of skin condition in which the immune system speeds up the formation of new skin cells that starts to grow rapidly on the surface. The extra amount of the skin forms a scaly and patches, which causes irritation and itchiness. 

Psoriasis can be caused due to 2 main reasons, due to some abnormality of the immune system or due to some genetic reasons it can be passed down from the parents to the offspring. Psoriasis can materialize on any part of the body, usually on hands, legs, torso, knees, elbows, and scalp. 

Although there are many psoriasis treatments available that can help in treating the skin condition, first, you need to understand the symptoms associated with it. 

Symptoms Associated with Psoriasis 

• Formation of scaly, red skin patches. 
• Dry skin patches that can crack and bleed. 
• Numbness around the affected skin. 
• Itchiness, irritation, and burning sensation around the affected skin. 
• Pain and swelling in the joints. 

Different Types of Psoriasis 

• Plaque Psoriasis 

It is a common type of psoriasis, and nearly 80 percent of the affected people are diagnosed with this type. Plaque psoriasis can cause inflammation and red skin patches. These patches can be found on knees, scalp, and elbows 

• Guttate Psoriasis 

Guttate psoriasis is more common in children than in adults. In this condition, small pink patches appear on arms, legs, and torso. 

• Pustular Psoriasis 

Unlike guttate psoriasis, pustular psoriasis is more in adults. It can leave its effects on any part of the body, and they appear as small patches. 

• Erythrodermic Psoriasis 

Erythrodermic psoriasis is the rarest skin condition in which the skin appears as burned and scaly. This condition can cover a large part of the body and cause irritation and fever. 

Treatment Available for Psoriasis 

Topical Treatments

Topical treatments and medications are aimed to treat a specific condition or disease. In the case of psoriasis, there are some topical creams and gels are available that can use. 

• Anthralin 
• Corticosteroids 
• Salicylic Acid 
• Topical Retinoids 
• Moisturizer 

Systemic Medications 

Systemic medication or targeted medication is preferred for the person who doesn’t respond to the topical treatment. This medication can cause reactions and side effects. That is why it is advised to consult with a dermatologist before taking any medication. Some common systemic medications are. 

• Cyclosporine 
• Retinoids 
• Methotrexate 

Light Therapy Treatment 

Light therapy treatment is a type of photo therapy treatment that utilizes the ultraviolet light for the treatment. In this process, the UV light attacks the white blood cells that are responsible of the formation of new skin cells. It causes the system to reduce the speed of the skin cells formation, which ultimately reduces the appearance of psoriasis. Both UVA and UVB lights can be used for the treatment. 

Conclusion 

Like any other skin, related condition psoriasis can also be very troubling and stressful. People affected by this condition can fell physical and emotional trauma because of the irritation and pain of the skin and how people see them due to their condition. But there is no reason to suffer, now with the advanced psoriasis treatments, you can get rid of the disease and return to your daily life.