Psoriasis
Psoriasis is a chronic skin condition characterized by the rapid growth of skin cells, leading to thick, red, scaly patches on the skin. Normally, skin cells grow and shed over a period of weeks, but in psoriasis, this process is significantly accelerated, occurring over days. This results in the accumulation of skin cells on the surface, forming the distinctive plaques. Psoriasis is thought to be an autoimmune disorder, where the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy skin cells as if they were a threat, triggering this rapid turnover.
The exact cause of psoriasis is not fully understood, but it is believed to involve a combination of genetic factors and environmental triggers. Triggers can vary from person to person and might include stress, skin injury (like cuts or scrapes), certain medications, or infections. Psoriasis is not contagious, meaning it cannot be spread from person to person.
Symptoms of psoriasis can vary in severity and form. The most common type, plaque psoriasis, presents as raised, red patches covered with a silvery-white buildup of dead skin cells, commonly found on the elbows, knees, scalp, and lower back. Other types of psoriasis can manifest in different ways, such as small dot-like lesions, severe rashes, or changes in nails and joints. The condition can be associated with other serious health conditions, like heart disease, diabetes, and depression.
Treatment for psoriasis aims to reduce inflammation and clear the skin. Options include topical treatments, light therapy, and systemic medications. Topical treatments, applied directly to the skin, can help slow cell growth and reduce inflammation. Light therapy involves exposing the skin to ultraviolet light under medical supervision. Systemic medications, which work throughout the entire body, are used for severe cases and can include oral or injected medications that suppress the immune system or target specific parts of the immune response.
It's important for individuals with psoriasis to work closely with healthcare professionals to manage the condition effectively. This can involve regular medical care, lifestyle changes to avoid triggers, and sometimes support to cope with the emotional aspects of living with a chronic skin condition.
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