Signs, Symptoms and Treatment for Psoriasis

Psoriasis is a lasting skin condition characterized by the rapid growth of skin cells resulting in the formation of thick red, scaly patches on the skin. It can impact any area of the body, sometimes affect the nails and joints as well. The signs and symptoms of psoriasis may vary in intensity from person to person with periods of improvement and recurrence. Here are some common indicators and manifestations of psoriasis;

Signs and Symptoms

1) Red, raised patches on the skin; These patches are often covered with scales, are referred to as plaques. They can be cause itchiness, burning and pain.
2) Dry, cracked skin; Affected areas may become dry cracked or even bleed at times.
3) Itching and burning sensation; Psoriasis can provoke itchiness along with a burning sensation on the skin.
4) Thickened or pitted nails; Psoriasis can affect nails by making them thickened pitted or discolored. In some cases nails may detach from their beds.
5) Pain and swelling; Some individuals, with psoriasis might develop a condition called psoriatic arthritis that leads to joint pain, swelling and stiffness.
6) Scalp involvement; Psoriasis can also impact the scalp resulting in red scaly patches or flakes resembling dandruff.

Treatment options 

The goal of treating psoriasis is to lessen the severity of symptoms control flare ups and enhance quality of life. 

1. Topical treatments; These are directly applied to the skin and include corticosteroids, vitamin D analogs, coal tar preparations and retinoids. They work by reducing inflammation slowing down the growth of skin cells and relieving itching.

2. Phototherapy; This involves exposing the skin to ultraviolet (UV) light, under supervision. It can be done using sunlight or artificial UV lamps. Phototherapy helps inhibit the growth of skin cells and reduce inflammation.

3. Medications; In severe cases or when other treatments are ineffective your doctor may prescribe oral or injectable medications such as methotrexate, cyclosporine, acitretin or biologics that specifically target certain proteins in the immune system.

4. Lifestyle changes; Managing psoriasis symptoms can involve making lifestyle adjustments like avoiding triggers such as stress, smoking and excessive alcohol consumption. Additionally maintaining a healthy diet and engaging in exercise can contribute to overall well being.

5. Moisturizers; Keeping the skin hydrated with emollients or moisturizers can help alleviate dryness and itching.
OTC products, like creams, shampoos and ointments that contain salicylic acid, coal tar or hydrocortisone can offer relief for symptoms of psoriasis. 

It’s important to collaborate with a healthcare professional, a dermatologist to create a customized treatment plan that takes into account the specific type and severity of your psoriasis. Since psoriasis is a long term condition adjustments may be necessary, over time to effectively manage flare ups and maintain skin health.