Psoriasis is a chronic, autoimmune disease that appears on the skin. It occurs when the immune system sends out faulty signals that speed up the growth cycle of skin cells (every three to four days instead of the usual 28-30 day cycle.) It commonly causes red, scaly patches to appear on the skin. The scaly patches commonly caused by psoriasis, called psoriatic plaques, are areas of inflammation and excessive skin production.
Skin rapidly accumulates at these sites which gives it a silvery-white appearance. Plaques frequently occur on the skin of the elbows and knees, but can affect any area including the scalp, palms of hands and soles of feet, and genitals. In contrast to eczema, psoriasis is more likely to be found on the outer side of the joint.
The disorder is a chronic recurring condition that varies in severity from minor localized patches to complete body coverage. Fingernails and toenails are frequently affected psoriatic nail dystrophy and can be seen as an isolated symptom. Psoriasis can also cause inflammation of the joints, which is known as psoriatic arthritis.
The cause of psoriasis is not fully understood, but it is believed to have a genetic component and local psoriatic changes can be triggered by an injury to the skin known as Koebner phenomenon. Various environmental factors have been suggested as aggravating to psoriasis including stress, withdrawal of systemic corticosteroid, excessive alcohol consumption, and smoking but few have shown statistical significance. There are many treatments available, but because of its chronic recurrent nature psoriasis is a challenge to treat.
There are different types of psoriasis: plaque, guttate, inverse, pustular, and erythrodermic. The most common form, plaque psoriasis, is commonly seen as red and white hues of scaly patches appearing on the top first layer of the epidermis. More info and links to photo's Here
Psoriasis is not contagious It cannot be passed on by skin to skin contact, it is not found in air, water or food. It cannot be transmitted by insects, towels, pets, etc. you cannot catch it from a blood transfusions, or having sex.
Psoriasis can affect anyone It makes no difference where you come from USA, Russia, Europe, Asia, anywhere in the world. / Male, Female, Gay, Lesbian, Sexually active, Virgin. / Babies / Teenagers / Middle Aged / Pensioners. It will start one day and you will probably have it for the rest of your life.
What's my chance of getting psoriasis? Psoriasis affects around 1 in 50 people worldwide and around 20% of those will go on to have psoriatic arthritis.
Because psoriasis is itchy, painful, and unsightly it can ruin your life, some people find it difficult to cope or even talk about it to others. It can lead to a feeling of low self-esteem and can result in depression. That is where Psoriasis Club comes in. We are totally self-funded and we don't rely on drug manufacturers or donations. We are proactive against Spammers, Trolls, Cyberbullying and offer a safe friendly atmosphere for our members.
You should always seek medical advice and preferably an appointment with a dermatologist.
