Psoriasis is a common condition that causes cells to build up rapidly on the surface of the skin. The excess skin cells form red, scaly patches that are itchy and painful. Psoriasis is a chronic condition that flares up periodically. There is no cure for the condition. Treatment is based on managing the symptoms. Common signs include joint pain, skin rash, depression, inflamed tendons, joint stiffness, plaque and small dents in the nails. If you experience any or all of these symptoms you should consult your physician for proper diagnosis and treatment. There are several types of psoriasis that can affect an individual in many ways.
Proper diagnosis is imperative in coping with the condition. Once your condition has been diagnosed your physician may recommend treatments such as topical creams, oral medication or methods such as light therapy that expose the affected skin to ultraviolet rays. Lifestyle changes such as alterations in diet can be beneficial. Alternative healing methods may alleviate discomfort. For instance, aloe vera can help improve the appearance of psoriasis. The use of Epsom salts can alleviate itching thereby preventing scratching that could lead to a secondary infection. Ask your doctor about more ways to manage your condition.
1. Joint Pain
There are different types and variations of psoriasis. Psoriatic arthritis is one variation that affects the joints. Pain in the joints is accompanied by stiffness and swelling. Although these symptoms can occur in any joints throughout the body, the fingers and spine are usually the areas most affected by joint psoriasis. Pain, stiffness, and swelling can be mild to severe. The pain associated with psoriatic arthritis tends to worsen over time. However, there may be periods of remission when symptoms lessen. Unfortunately, psoriasis often leads to psoriatic arthritis, and about 20 % of those with psoriasis will develop psoriatic arthritis. The swelling of the joints usually takes time to occur, generally only becoming evident in a person’s late forties or fifties.
2. Skin Rash
The rash associated with psoriasis begins as small red bumps that develop into large scaly patches. The skin appears thick and can crack. The area may be painful and bleed easily. The patches are red in appearance with silvery scales that may itch and peel.
Although the rash can develop on any part of the body it is most common on the hands, elbows, knees, back, and scalp. The rash is unsightly but it is not contagious.
3. Depression
The unsightly appearance of psoriasis may cause depression in some people who suffer from the condition. According to the Psoriasis Foundation, people who suffer from psoriasis are twice as likely to develop depression than others. People with this condition often feel socially isolated. They may also isolate themselves by withdrawing from social functions due to feeling self-conscious.
They may also try to cover their rash by wearing long sleeves even in warm weather. The stress of dealing with the condition can cause them to sink further into a depressed state.
4. Inflamed Tendons
Tendons are thick cords that connect your muscles to your bones. Inflammation of the tendons is commonly associated with psoriatic arthritis. Inflammation produces redness, swelling, and warmth in the part of the body affected. Inflammation is a part of the body’s immune system response. It is the body’s way to remove harmful substances or heal damaged cells.
Signs of inflammation usually include pain, stiffness, and swelling which can be relieved by the use of pain medication as well as the application of ice and/or heat.
5. Joint Stiffness
Joint stiffness usually accompanies pain and inflammation which are common symptoms of the type of psoriasis known as psoriatic arthritis. Although it may affect any joints in the body the fingers are primarily affected. The joint stiffness makes the fingers difficult to bend. The condition is painful and affected by swelling as well. Psoriatic arthritis can affect one or both sides of the body. For instance, the fingers of one hand may be affected but not the other.
6. Plaque
Plaque is a descriptive term regarding the rash associated with the condition. It refers to the raised state of the scaly patches that develop on the body. The plaque appears as raised, red patches of skin with a silvery, scaly appearance which is actually a build-up of dead skin cells. It can be treated with topical medications to reduce the inflammation.
7. Small Dents in Nails
Psoriasis can affect your finger and toenails. Signs of nail psoriasis include dents or ridges in the nails, small white spots, and thickening. The nails may display a discoloration that causes them to appear green, yellow or brown. A white chalky substance may build up under the fingernails. The nails may also become loose and separate from the nail bed. The nails can become tender or even painful.
