- Frequently Asked Questions & Answers About Psoriasis
If you have questions about psoriasis, simply browse through the full psoriasis FAQ below for answers and insight.
What is psoriasis?
Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory skin condition. It affects millions of people – approximately 3% percent of the world’s population. It can cause red, dry, elevated, scaling, blistering skin anywhere on the body. Skin cells reproduce faster than normal and accumulate on the surface. It is linked to the body’s immune system.
The 5 main types of Psoriasis, each with their own unique symptoms: Inverse, Plaque, Pustular, Guttate and Erythrodermic. In most cases, people will only have one type of Psoriasis at a time. However, it is possible to develop multiple types at once, or have the type change from one to another.
What causes psoriasis?
At this time, the health industry does not know the exact causes of psoriasis. We know that things such as genetics and weak immune systems can be linked as possible causes.
Who can get psoriasis?
Psoriasis can affect anyone at any age. However, the adult population is most affected. Those with a family history of psoriasis are at an increased risk.
What are the symptoms of psoriasis?
– Red patches on the skin (small to large)
– Plaques of the skin or scalp
– Scaling / Silvery scales
– Nail discoloration, pitting, change in shape
– See psoriasis symptoms page for more
Who gets Psoriasis?
Psoriasis occurs almost equally between men and women, as well as in all racial groups. It typically appears between the ages of 15 to 35. Another peak onset is between 50 and 60 years of age.
Psoriasis in males & females – Is one more at risk?
Both men and women are equally at risk for psoriasis. Statistics show that the amount of male and female sufferers is currently equal.
What is Psoriatic Arthritis?
Psoriatic arthritis is a related condition of psoriasis. It can affect the joints of hands, elbows, knees and feet.
Is psoriasis a contagious disease?
No, psoriasis is not a contagious disease. It is genetically based and therefore cannot be ‘transmitted’ by coming in contact with an infected person.
How is psoriasis diagnosed?
Currently, there aren’t any special blood tests or diagnostic tools to diagnose psoriasis. Due to the many variations of psoriasis, diagnosing the type is not always easy. Your physician or dermatologist will examine the skin as well as toenails and fingernails and may also enquire about your family’s medical history.
Are there different types of psoriasis?
No, not all forms of psoriasis are the same. There are several forms of psoriasis and can range from mild to moderate, to very severe and disabling. The five main types of psoriasis are: Plaque, Guttate, Pustular, Inverse and Erythrodermic.
Does psoriasis have a cure?
At this time there is no known cure for psoriasis. All we can do is treat the disease to reduce symptoms.
What are the treatment options for psoriasis?
The main 3 psoriasis treatment options include: Topical treatments (psoriasis cream), Phototherapy (light) or Systemic Medications. Psoriasis treatments vary depending on the individual and can involve experimenting with different methods to determine which treatment will work best for you.
What are psoriasis triggers?
The term “psoriasis trigger” is a term used to identify psoriasis breakouts. They can include stress, seasonal changes, temperature fluctuations, immune system weakness, infections and medications.
Can parents pass on psoriasis to their children?
There is a 20% chance that offspring will develop psoriasis through genetics. The chance for developing psoriasis rises to 60% if both parents have the disease.
Why is my psoriasis different in summer and winter?
Seasonal changes can play a role in your psoriasis outbreaks. The extra sunlight during summer can help improve your flare-ups while the cold and dry air of winter can trigger it.
Can psoriasis affect the genital region?
Yes, both males and females can develop genital psoriasis at any age.
Is sunlight good for psoriasis?
Yes, uv rays from sunlight can have a positive effect on psoriasis. For some sufferers, the more sun they get, the better their flare-ups get. However, sunlight can also cause other skin diseases and is important to speak with your doctor before going into the sun for long periods.
Can psoriasis cause hair loss?
Psoriasis itself will not cause your hair to fall out. But, the thick scales developed in the scalp region can entrap your hair. If the scales are removed, you can put out hairs in the process. Also, some medical ingredients like salicylic acid can temporarily damage your hair.
Can people die from psoriasis?
Yes, people with severe psoriasis can die in certain cases. 100’s of people lose their lives due to complications caused by psoriasis every year. This is because the skin plays such an important role in regulating body temperature and serving as a barrier to infection.
Can psoriasis sufferers function normally?
Absolutely yes. People with psoriasis can and do lead very normal lives. Some people can experience low self-esteem due to embarrassment. It can also create awkward social interactions for some. As well, conditions like anxiety, anger and depression.
End of Psoriasis FAQ – Frequently asked questions & answers about psoriasis.
