What Is Psoriasis

Psoriasis is a disease of the skin. In its most common form, it appears as thick, scaly patches. These patches of psoriasis are usually red with a top layer that is silvery-white and flakey. In other forms, it may appear as tiny red spots or blisters on the skin. One type of psoriasis may even result in large crimson areas over the body. These symptoms may appear anywhere from the top of the head to the bottom of the feet.

Psoriasis is not only cosmetically difficult, but it is also painful to most sufferers. The patches may crack or burn. The patches of psoriasis often itch so much that the victims scratch extensively to relieve the irritation. This scratching sometimes causes the patches of psoriasis to bleed and, in some instances, to scar.

Most people with psoriasis have no other symptoms. It is, however, a disease without a cure and is a condition that lasts a lifetime. Sometimes the symptoms increase significantly. At other times, the psoriasis almost becomes dormant.

Psoriasis can not be passed from one person to another. Doctors feel that it may be an inherited disorder. Possibly, it is a condition in which the formation of new skin cells is too rapid and irregular. These rapidly dividing cells in the top layer of skin do not mature completely, leaving the skin unusually thick. This process also leaves the lower layer of skin with an excessive number of enlarged blood vessels.

Even though patients diagnosed with psoriasis can expect to deal with it for the rest of their lives, it generally does not progress to other problems. In fact, only about a quarter of those affected by psoriasis develop a more severe problem in the form of psoriatic arthritis. This is characterized by joint pain and inflammation.

Psoriasis affects between seven and eight million Americans. It is a disease found in both men and women. Although it is more prevalent in those between the ages of fifteen and thirty-five, it has been found in people of all ages. Even some babies have been diagnosed with psoriasis, but this is quite unusual.

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