Living with Psoriasis: Understanding and Managing a Chronic Skin Condition
Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune skin condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It occurs when the immune system triggers the rapid buildup of skin cells, leading to scaling, inflammation, redness, and discomfort. While it is not contagious, psoriasis can significantly impact a person's physical and emotional well-being.
There are several types of psoriasis, but the most common is plaque psoriasis, which appears as raised, red patches covered with a silvery-white buildup of dead skin cells. These patches can appear anywhere on the body but are most commonly found on the elbows, knees, scalp, and lower back. Other forms include guttate psoriasis, which looks like small, drop-shaped spots; inverse psoriasis, found in skin folds; and pustular psoriasis, which causes white pustules surrounded by red skin.
The exact cause of psoriasis is still not fully understood, but it is known to involve both genetic and environmental factors. If a person has a family history of psoriasis, they are more likely to develop it themselves. Triggers such as stress, infections, injuries to the skin, certain medications, and even weather changes can cause flare-ups in those who are genetically predisposed.
