A common skin condition, psoriasis happens when the life cycle of skin cells speeds up. This causes a rapid build-up of cells on the skin’s surface. Sometimes those suffering with psoriasis can find the scales and red patches that the additional skin cells form can be itchy or even painful. The ultimate goal of psoriasis treatment is to prevent the skin cells from developing so speedily.

Psoriasis, unfortunately, has no cure, although the symptoms are manageable with effective treatment from a board-certified dermatologist. Certain lifestyle adjustments, such as avoiding smoking, getting stress levels under control, and moisturizing are all great steps to take when looking to minimize the effects of psoriasis.

There are several different types of psoriasis, and each can range from just a few simple red spots to major breakouts that cover large areas of the body. The following are the different types of psoriasis.

Erythodermic psoriasis: This is the least common form and covers the entire body with an itchy, red, peeling rash that can burn intensely.

Guttate psoriasis: Mainly affecting young children, this is caused by bacterial infections. Signs include small scaling lesions on the arms, trunk, legs and scalp.

Inverse psoriasis: This causes smooth red patches, around the armpits, groin, breasts and genitals, and it can worsen with sweating and friction. It may be caused by a fungal infection.

Nail psoriasis: The nails can be affected by psoriasis, causing abnormal nail growth, discoloration and pitting. The nails may even become separated from the nail bed, and in severe cases the nail may crumble.
Plaque psoriasis: This is the most common form, causing dry, raised red skin lesions covered with silvery scales. They may be itchy or even painful, and they can occur anywhere on the body.

Psoriatic arthritis: Swollen and painful joints can also be caused by psoriasis, either mildly or severely. While not the most severe kind of arthritis, it nevertheless can cause stiffness and progressive damage to the joints that can lead to permanent deformity.

Pustular psoriasis: This too is quite uncommon, and it can occur on the hands, feet, or fingertips in smaller or widespread patches. Just hours after your skin becomes red and tender, pus-filled blisters can appear and come and go frequently. Symptoms may also include fever, chills, diarrhea, and severe itching.

Psoriasis symptoms can differ from person to person. Some of the most commonly found signs and symptoms of psoriasis include the following:

• Red patches on the skin
• Thick, silvery scales
• Stiff or swollen joints
• Small scaling spots (This is most commonly found in children who have developed psoriasis)
• Thickened, ridged or pitted finger nails
• Dried out, cracking skin that may even bleed

With the use of ultraviolet light, we can safely and effectively reduce not only the size and appearance of psoriasis patches, but also the itchiness too, potentially even clearing your psoriasis symptoms entirely. Light therapy slows the excess growth of skin cells, reducing the psoriasis’ formulation. Alternatively, medications that treat the symptoms of psoriasis are also available from a board-certified dermatologist at Clarkston Dermatology to manage your symptoms.