Understanding Psoriasis: Types and Key Symptoms

Psoriasis is a long-term skin condition affecting individuals of all ages. It results in red, flaky patches commonly found on elbows, knees, scalp, and lower back. These patches develop from an accelerated skin cell cycle, leading to thick scales that may cause itching or burning. Approximately 8 million people nationwide experience psoriasis, which varies in severity. Proper treatment is essential to manage symptoms and prevent flare-ups, improving quality of life.

Types of psoriasis

Plaque psoriasis

This is the most prevalent form, impacting about 80-90% of psoriasis cases. It frequently appears on the scalp, knees, elbows, and torso. Plaque psoriasis is often linked with nail psoriasis and can be triggered by genetics, skin injuries, sunburns, stress, or infections. Symptoms include raised, inflamed rashes that may vary in size from dandruff-like flakes to large eruptions, accompanied by itchiness and redness. The affected skin may dry out, crack, and sometimes bleed.

Guttate psoriasis

This variant, often affecting children or young adults, can be triggered by genetics or bacterial infections. It is characterized by small, drop-shaped scars that typically appear on the limbs and torso, often worsening in winter. Symptoms include red teardrop lesions, dry flaky skin, and intense itching. During summer, symptoms tend to lessen or disappear, with disease severity classified into mild, moderate, or severe based on lesion count.

Pustular psoriasis

Marked by pus-filled blisters on red patches, pustular psoriasis can be caused by genetic factors, skin reactions, or harsh topical treatments. Symptoms include blisters on palms and soles, painful lesions on fingertips or toes, and painful, pus-filled blotches on various body parts, often making daily tasks difficult.

Inverse psoriasis

This type affects skin folds such as armpits, groin, under breasts, and around genitals. The skin here is thinner and more sensitive, making management challenging. Symptoms include shiny, discolored patches that may itch, crack, and cause excessive moisture, leading to increased sweating.

Erythrodermic psoriasis

An aggressive and severe form, erythrodermic psoriasis can be life-threatening if untreated. It often occurs in those with existing plaque psoriasis. Symptoms include sudden skin rashes resembling sunburn, burning sensations, peeling skin, and potential nail loss. Serious complications may involve fluid retention, dehydration, infection, pneumonia, and heart issues.

Common causes of psoriasis

Genetics

Psoriasis is an autoimmune condition often inherited. Family history increases risk, as gene mutations contribute to its development.

Infections

Bacterial, viral, or fungal infections, including strep throat, can trigger psoriasis outbreaks.

Skin treatments

Triggers of psoriasis

Environmental and lifestyle factors such as cold, dry weather, skin injuries, sudden medication changes, steroid withdrawal, and stress can trigger psoriasis flare-ups.