How to Tell If You Have Psoriasis
Many people have psoriasis. In fact, it is the most common autoimmune disease in the United States. But despite how common it is, many people don’t even know if they have the condition. That’s because symptoms of psoriasis can resemble more than 50 other conditions.
Here is some useful information to help you determine if you have this common skin condition.
What are the symptoms of psoriasis?
Psoriasis causes skin cells in certain areas of your body to grow too fast. Symptoms may vary from person to person, and may also be different depending on the type of psoriasis you have. Some of the most common symptoms are:
- Areas of red, inflamed skin covered with thick, scaly silvery-colored patches, called plaques
- Scaly plaques on the scalp
- Itchy, painful skin that may crack or bleed
- Discoloration and pitting (grooves or depressions) of nails on fingers and toes
What are the different types of psoriasis?
“Selecting the best treatment option depends on the kind of psoriasis you have,” says Timothy Almazan MD, dermatologist for PIH Health in Whittier and La Mirada. Dr. Almazan adds, “usually patients have one predominant form of psoriasis; however, different forms can appear at the same time, which is why a dermatologist is helpful in making an accurate assessment of the conditions’ extent and severity.” Here’s a quick rundown of some common types of psoriasis:
- Plaque psoriasis causes patches of thick, scaly silvery-colored areas on the skin.
- Guttate psoriasis causes a rash with small reddish bumps.
- Inverse psoriasis causes dry, red and scaly patches that form in the folds of the skin.
- Pustular psoriasis may form pus-filled blisters on the skin.
- Erythrodermic psoriasis may cause widespread peeling, burning and inflammation of the skin, as well as fever.
- Psoriatic arthritis combines symptoms of psoriasis, along with those of arthritis, such as stiff and painful joints.
How does psoriasis differ from other skin conditions?
The skin condition most often confused with psoriasis is eczema. These two conditions have similar symptoms but they are not the same. For one, psoriasis is an immune disorder and eczema is not. Here are some of the similarities and differences between the two:
- How they feel. Although both conditions may cause intensely itchy skin, psoriasis is also usually accompanied by burning or stinging pain.
- How they look. Both conditions may make your skin look red and inflamed. Eczema typically causes rough, leathery looking patches that are sometimes dark. Psoriasis patches are typically silvery and scaly looking and are raised. The skin is thicker and more inflamed than with eczema.
Where does psoriasis commonly occur?
Although you can find plaques just about anywhere on the body, the most common places are on the elbows, knees and scalp. The legs, trunk and nails may also be affected.
Is psoriasis contagious?
No. The condition is not transmittable from person to person. Rather, it is an autoimmune disease.
Are there specific triggers that cause psoriasis to flare up?
Although each person’s experience with the condition may be different, common triggers of psoriasis flare-ups are stress, infections and some medications. Cold dry weather may also be a trigger. In some people, any type of skin injury, such as cuts, burns or bruises, can trigger an outbreak. It has also been shown that drinking alcohol and smoking (or being around smoke) may exacerbate symptoms.
If you have any questions about your skin or if you are looking for a dermatologist in or near your area, visit PIHHealth.org/dermatology.
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