This disease causes dry, itchy, scaly patches of skin. We often see them on the elbows, knees and scalp. Psoriasis is a long-term condition with no cure. It can be linked to other serious issues, like a form of arthritis called "psoriatic arthritis." And living with psoriasis can take a toll on your emotional health.
What causes this disease? We think it's an immune system problem that causes the immune system to attack healthy skin cells. When this happens, the skin quickly makes a lot of new replacement cells. They pile up on the skin's surface, forming scaly patches.
Psoriasis can flare up for weeks or months, get better, and then flare up again. These flare-ups are triggered by things like illness, stress, cold and dry weather, alcohol and medications. Ask your doctor for a full list of triggers.
What are the symptoms? Psoriasis patches are dry and rough, and they may crack and bleed. On light skin, the scales may look silver or white. On dark skin, they may look gray. Psoriasis patches can be itchy and sore. They may burn. There are different types of psoriasis, and they have different symptoms. Your doctor can identify the type you have.
How do we treat psoriasis? There are a wide variety of over-the-counter and prescription medications. Some are applied directly to the skin (examples include creams and shampoos). Some are taken by mouth, and some are injected. You may benefit from light therapy or other methods. Your doctor will create a plan that's right for you.