Home  >>  Skin Care  >>  Psoriasis - Causes and Treatment

Psoriasis - Causes and Treatment

Psoriasis is a skin disorder which causes red skin with silvers scales and inflammation of skin. Psoriasis is chronic and hence challenging to treat. Psoriasis can affect knee, joints, nails, elbows, arm, trunk, genitals, scalp or legs. Psoriasis can also cause Hair Loss. It is not a contagious disease that could be easily transferred from an infected person but can be hereditary.

Psoriasis can be classified as Plaque Psoriasis (silver-white scaly skin), Guttate Psoriasis (oval shaped spots in skin), Psoriatic Arthritis (affects joints), Pustular Psoriasis (white color pustules), Nail Psoriasis (infects nail), Inverse Psoriasis (smooth inflamed patches in genitals and armpits), Erythrodermic psoriasis( severe and widespread inflammation). Plaque Psoriasis is the most common which is found in 80-90% of psoriasis infected person.

Although the exact cause of Psoriasis is unknown, it is believed to be caused due to genetic component, disorder in immune system, excessive drinking of alcohols, chain smoking and stress etc.

Treating Psoriasis depends upon the severity and body (skin) condition. It is advisable to consult a Dermatologist who can offer a suitable treatment after a proper medical examination. Most treatments start with the initial medications of oilments and cream (Argan Oil, Anthralin etc.). Psoriasis can be treated by way of oral medications and injections (Methotrexate, Cyclosporine and Retinoids). Moderate exposure to sunlight is also an effective Treatment. Psoriasis can also be treated by alternative treatments like Herbology, Ayurvedic, Acupuncture, Naturopathy etc.