Most psoriasis comes in the form of psoriasis vulgaris. This type of the disease is characterized by patches of red on the skin of various sizes. Not to be confused with skin damage caused by overextended exposure to ultra-violet light, these patches are buildups of skin caused by the immune system, which, due to its genetic disposition, grows cells at an accelerated pace. Usually they form a slightly raised area, often causing discomfort through itching, scaling, dryness and swelling. While the level of discomfort caused by these patches can vary, they generally never go completely away. In some cases psoriatic symptoms form strictly on the elbows, knees and other joints although it can be found on just about any part of the body, depending on the severity of the case.
Scalp psoriasis is an aspect of the disease among 50% of those with psoriasis. It is characterized by small dandruff-like particles of skin which fall from the hair, usually spotted on the shoulders. Doctors often search for other forms on psoriasis on a patient’s body to determine if he or she has scalp psoriasis.
10% to 15% of those with psoriasis have psoriatic arthritis, which commonly forms in the joints of the fingers and toes, but can also form in the back and spine. Older patients are more susceptible to the worsening of psoriatic arthritis.
There are forms of psoriasis that cause nail ailments, discoloring, cracking, sometimes crumbling the nails that are subject to disease. While psoriasis vulgaris is non-pustular, other forms of psoriasis come in the form of bumps on the skin in which there is a non-infectious puss. This is more commonly considered a moderate or severe form of the disease, depending on the portion affected.
Guttate psoriasis is identified by numerous and small but widespread patches of reddened skin. These are usually found on the stomach and back, known in medical terms as the ‘trunk,’ but are also found on the arms and legs of patients. The patches are prone to stages of breakout and repression, depending somewhat on frequency of treatment.
It is recommended that basic symptoms of psoriasis are diagnosed by a doctor, so that professional medical treatment can be administered. While basic creams and ointments are available off the counter to treat mild symptoms, moderate or severe symptoms requite more advanced forms of treatment that have their own set of adverse side effects.
Read about the best treatment of Psoriasis here.
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