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    1. Home
    2. Health and wellbeing
    3. Illnesses and conditions
    4. A to Z

    Psoriasis

    Psoriasis is a skin condition that causes red, flaky, crusty patches of skin covered with silvery scales. Some people find their psoriasis causes itching or soreness. You should see your GP if you think you may have psoriasis.

    Symptoms of psoriasis

    Psoriasis typically causes patches of skin that are dry, red and covered in silver scales. These patches normally appear on your elbows, knees, scalp and lower back, but can appear anywhere on your body.  

    Picture of psoriasis on face and neck
    Psoriasis on face and neck

    Picture showing psoriasis that causes red, flaky, crusty patches of skin covered with silvery scales
    Picture of psoriasis affecting the scalp
    Psoriasis affecting the scalp

    Most people are only affected with small patches. In some cases, the patches can be itchy or sore.

    There are several different types of psoriasis. Many people have only one form of psoriasis at a time, although two different types can occur together.

    Guttate psoriasis also known as ‘tear drop’ or ‘rain drop’ psoriasis, is a widespread rash of small spots. It can occur at any age, but tends to occur  most often in children, adolescents and younger adults.

    Picture of a back showing guttate psoriasis
    Guttate psoriasis on a back

    Usually, guttate psoriasis is widespread across the torso, back and limbs, and clears up after several weeks or months, depending on how quickly treatment is started.

    Some people may continue to have flares from time to time, or find it evolves into one of the other types of psoriasis

    One type may change into another type, or become more severe.

    Most cases of psoriasis go through cycles, causing problems for a few weeks or months before easing or stopping.

    You should see your GP if you think you may have psoriasis.

    What causes psoriasis

    People with psoriasis have an increased production of skin cells.

    The build-up of skin cells is what creates the patches associated with psoriasis.

    Although the process isn't fully understood, it's thought to be related to a problem with the immune system.

    Many people's psoriasis symptoms start or become worse because of a certain event, known as a "trigger". Possible triggers of psoriasis include an injury to your skin, throat infections and using certain medicines.

    The condition isn't contagious. It can't be spread from person to person.

    How psoriasis is diagnosed

    Your GP can often diagnose psoriasis based on the appearance of your skin.

    You may be referred to a dermatologist (a specialist in diagnosing and treating skin conditions) if your doctor is uncertain about your diagnosis, or if your condition is severe.

    If your doctor thinks you have psoriatic arthritis, which is sometimes a complication of psoriasis, you may be referred to a rheumatologist (a doctor who specialises in arthritis).

    Treating psoriasis

    There's no cure for psoriasis. A range of treatments, including creams and ointments, can improve symptoms and the appearance of skin patches.

    The health professional looking after your care will discuss treatment options with you.

    Living with psoriasis

    For some people, psoriasis is just a minor irritation. But, it can have a significant impact on quality of life for those more severely affected.

    For example, some people with psoriasis have low self-esteem because of the effect the condition has on their appearance. This may be associated with anxiety or depression.

    It's also quite common to develop tenderness, pain and swelling in the joints and connective tissue. This is known as psoriatic arthritis.

    Psoriasis can affect both fingernails and toenails. About half of those with psoriasis may have nail involvement.  

    Picture of a fingernail with nail involvement caused by psoriasis
    ‘Pitting’ of the nail surface caused by psoriasis

    Most of those who develop psoriatic arthritis will also have nail involvement. Fingernails are more often affected than toenails.

    Speak to your GP or healthcare team if you have psoriasis and you have any concerns about your physical and mental wellbeing.

    They can offer advice and further treatment if necessary. There are also support groups for people with psoriasis, see more useful links below.

    • Find out more about psoriasis on the NHS website

    More useful links

    • How to use your health services
    • Psoriasis association
    • PAPAA

    The information on this page has been adapted from original content from the NHS website.

    For further information see terms and conditions.

    Health conditions A to Z

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