In psoriasis, patches of red, thickened skin with silvery scales develop, usually on the elbows, knees, scalp, and trunk.

These areas can be itchy and painful. The areas usually involved are the elbows, knees, and the skin behind the ears, the trunk, and the scalp.

The disease may also affect the underarms and genital areas. Nails may become rough and pitted, and less commonly, a form of arthritis develops.

Causes

• Due to abnormality in the mechanism in which the skin grows and replaces itself

• Abnormality with the metabolism of amino acids

• Use of certain medicines

• Due to infections

• Heredity factors are also responsible

• Physical and emotional stress

Signs & Symptoms

Red and irritated skin with bright silvery scales, and sometimes accompanied with slight itching.

Treatment

Treatment focuses on control of symptoms and prevention of secondary infection.

Treatment includes painkillers, sedatives, intravenous fluids and antibiotics.

Other treatments include moderate exposure to sunlight or phototherapy.

Advice

• Take a well balanced diet including fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, and grains

• Apply a moisturizer to lubricate and soften scaly patches of skin

• Take a daily bath in warm water to soak off the scales

• Do not take tea, coffee, all animal fats, and processed foods

• Don’t scratch or rub patches of thickened skin

• Avoid harsh skin products and lotions that contain alcohol. They may dry the skin and make psoriasis worse

• Keep your towel, clothes separate and clean