Psoriasis

Psoriasis

What is Psoriasis?

Psoriasis (sore-EYE-ah-sis) is a medical condition that occurs when skin cells grow too quickly. Faulty signals in the immune system cause new skin cells to form in days rather than weeks. The body does not shed these excess skin cells, so the cells pile up on the surface of the skin and lesions form.

What causes Psoriasis?

Psoriasis begins in the immune system, mainly with a type of white blood cell called a T cell. T cells help protect the body against infection and disease. With psoriasis, T cells are put into action by mistake. They become so active that they set off other immune responses. This leads to swelling and fast turnover of skin cells. People with Psoriasis may notice that sometimes the skin gets better and sometimes it gets worse. Things that can cause the skin to get worse include:

  • Infections
  • Stress
  • Changes in weather that dry the skin
  • Certain medicines

What does Psoraisis look like?

Most Psoriasis causes patches of thick, red skin with silvery scales. These patches can itch or feel sore. They are often found on the elbows, knees, other parts of the legs, scalp, lower back, face, palms, and soles of the feet. But they can show up other places such as fingernails, toenails, genitals, and inside the mouth.

Below are some images that may assist you with identifying Psoriasis:

How is Psoriasis Treated?

There is no cure for this condition, however there are a number of ways Psoriasis can be treated by a Podiatrist. It is best to make an appointment with a Podiatrist at Medical Pedicure to have your condition assessed and an appropriate treatment prescribed to manage your specific needs.

Depending on the severity of the condition, a treatment plan may include the removal of excess layers of dead skin that may be required weekly, or monthly. Other treatments such as topical lotions and medication may also be prescribed to assist with the management of Psoriasis.

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