Skin disorders are significantly a lot more common than what people generally assume or have knowledge about. Psoriasis, a chronic skin condition, affects 2-3 percent of the global population, accounting for 125+ million people worldwide.
For those unaware, psoriasis is a common skin disorder caused by an overactive immune system. In this condition, the skin cells multiply uncontrollably, leading to patches of skin that become red, irritated, and inflamed.
While the exact causes behind psoriasis aren’t known yet, researchers believe it is most likely a blend of environmental and genetic factors. In this article, we will explore a list of the 5 psoriasis symptoms that most people either aren’t aware of or overlook.
What are the Complications Associated with Psoriasis?
When you suffer from the signs of psoriasis, the impacts aren’t generally confined to the skin. This suggests that patients who suffer from this skin disorder are also at risk of developing other chronic ailments, including:
- Psoriatic arthritis
- Cardiovascular complications
- Mental health issues
- Risks of certain cancers
- Risks of other chronic ailments like Crohn’s disease, diabetes, metabolic syndrome, etc.
This explains why prioritizing the psoriasis symptoms and getting immediate medical help is highly encouraged.
What are the 5 Red Signs of Psoriasis?
Now, the question is, “How do I realize I have psoriasis?” The answer to that is simple. Like every other disease, you must also remain vigilant of the common symptoms of psoriasis. And, to be fair, the symptoms are much more than red and patchy skin.
To clarify your doubts, we have listed out the five most common signs of psoriasis that you need to look out for:
1. Red, Itchy Patches
One of the primary and alarming symptoms of psoriasis is the presence of red, raised patches of skin known as plaques. These patches often have a silvery-white scale covering them, creating a distinctive appearance.
The areas on the body where you will mostly witness them vary from one person to the other. However, some of the most common sites include the elbows, knees, scalp, and lower back. The plaques generally form due to the accelerated skin cell turnover, which leads to thick and scaly patches on the skin.
Besides the appearance of red patches all over the skin, these are accompanied by excessive itching and discomfort, which can be extremely disruptive to one’s daily activities. The urge to scratch the affected areas may worsen the condition, leading to the Koebner phenomenon, wherein new psoriatic lesions develop at sites of skin trauma.
2. Nail Changes
Not many people realize this, but if you have psoriasis, you will also notice changes in your nail’s appearance and texture. The condition is medically termed as psoriatic nail dystrophy. In this, the patients who suffer from the disorder experience pitting, or small dents, on the surface of their nails.
In some instances, the nails also undergo discoloration, and you might witness yellow or oil-stained spots on top of the nails. If left untreated, the conditions can become more severe, leading to nail thickening, crumbling, or detachment from the nail bed.
The majority of the patients who witness changes in their nails due to psoriasis symptoms often express mental anguish over the situation. The situation is distressing and frustrating, and it evokes feelings of self-consciousness.
Recognizing these nail changes as potential signs of psoriasis is crucial, as addressing the condition comprehensively involves managing skin and nail manifestations.
3. Joint Pain and Swelling
We briefly discussed this complication related to psoriasis, known as psoriatic arthritis, wherein it affects the joints, leading to excruciating pain, inflammation, and discomfort for the patient. It is a type of inflammatory arthritis that leads to stiffness and pain in the joints.
The joints most commonly affected include those in the fingers, toes, wrists, knees, and ankles. In some cases, PsA can also affect the spine, leading to pain and stiffness in the neck and lower back.
If you have been diagnosed with psoriasis, you are at an elevated risk of developing PsA, which explains why being alert and mindful of the common symptoms of psoriasis is so vital. Getting timely medical interventions reverses the pain and enables the patient to have a better quality of life.
4. Scalp Psoriasis
While we are on the topic of identifying the signs of psoriasis, noticing the symptoms on the scalp is equally important. This manifestation can cause red, itchy patches on the scalp, often covered with silvery-white scales. Scalp psoriasis can extend beyond the hairline, affecting the forehead, neck, and ears.
The situation is challenging and extremely uncomfortable because there is a constant urge to itch the scalp, which can further worsen the symptoms.
In some cases, scalp psoriasis may lead to temporary hair loss. The constant itching and scratching can damage hair follicles, resulting in hair thinning or shedding. If that is the case with you, consulting professionals like the ones at AAYNA Clinic can help you navigate through the challenges with more flair and confidence.
5. Generalized Fatigue
We have explained that psoriasis symptoms aren’t confined to the skin. It directly and indirectly affects one’s physical and emotional well-being.
Last on the list of signs of psoriasis that you are likely missing out on is that of experiencing generalized fatigue throughout the day. The chronic inflammation associated with psoriasis and the emotional toll of living with a visible skin condition can contribute to feelings of exhaustion and low energy levels.
Additionally, the fatigue that psoriatic patients experience is often disproportionate to their level of physical activity, and it may persist even after a good night’s sleep. So, when you are experiencing such symptoms, it makes sense that you’d want to get immediate help from qualified and experienced medical professionals and aestheticians.
How is Psoriasis Treated?
Now that you have a list of all the relevant signs of psoriasis to look out for, it makes sense that you’d want to explore more about psoriasis treatment.
Following are some of the most commonly used treatment routes:
Topical treatments
This includes ointments and serums formulated with corticosteroids, topical retinoids, or calcineurin inhibitors to reduce the inflammatory response and moisturize the skin to reduce the appearance of flaky and dry skin.
Phototherapy (light therapy)
Exposure to ultraviolet B (UVB) light slows down the rapid growth of skin cells. Not only that but even a combination of light-sensitizing medication (psoralen) and UVA light exposure is used to treat the symptoms of psoriasis.
Injectable therapies
In addition to oral administration, some biologics are injected subcutaneously at home. These medications target specific proteins involved in the immune response, helping to control inflammation and reduce symptoms.
Note: Psoriasis treatment has come a long way. While many options are available at AAYNA Clinic, what would work for you and your situation depends on the specifics and the severity. We advise scheduling a consultation with one of our experienced dermatologists for a tailored treatment plan.
Conclusion
Psoriasis is a complex and multifaceted condition beyond its visible skin manifestations. Recognizing the diverse symptoms of psoriasis is crucial for early diagnosis and effective management.
If you are struggling with psoriasis symptoms and want effective treatments to overcome the symptoms, our specialists at AAYNA Clinic are here to help you overcome the suffering. Contact our team directly for details and appointments.
