The unwelcome guest – psoriasis symptoms that you should know about

Psoriasis is a chronic immune skin disease that affects 3-5% of world population of various age groups. This condition shows no mercy to nobody – not young, not old, and it is more common to the people in Northern European countries. The main symptom of the disease is pink patches that are covered with grey, white or silvery scales. Since psoriasis can develop at any moment in life (and it cannot be cured completely - only controlled), everyone should know the main causes of psoriasis.

What causes psoriasis?

First off, it should be noted that psoriasis is a genetic disorder. Currently, scientists have identified 50+ gene disorders. Another important aspect is that the disorder can be inborn; psoriasis is sometimes referred to as a “family disease” – if one of the parents have it, your risk of developing it is significantly higher. 

When the immune system develops distorted signals, its cell multiplication considerably increases, i.e. new cells develop within days instead of weeks.

The genetic changes can cause metabolic disorders, which is one of the major causes for developing the disorder. Although all causes for psoriasis have not been identified yet, it is proposed that the skin disease can be caused by skin infections, trauma, prolonged stress, certain medicine, excessive use of alcohol, and smoking.

How does psoriasis manifest itself?

This skin disease can be easily mistaken for other conditions with similar symptoms, which is why it should be diagnosed by Prof. J. Kisis’ Aesthetic Dermatology Clinic specialists which specialise in treating psoriasis. The experts of the clinic point out that the main psoriasis symptoms are:

• Red, itchy spots with a scaly surface;
• Brittle and splitting nails;
• Indentions in the surface of the nails;
• Blemishes;
• Dry, chapped skin on fingertips;
• Inflamed gums;
• Changes in cholesterol or blood sugar levels;
• Metabolic system disorders;
• Joint problems.

Which parts of the body are affected by psoriasis?

The abovementioned symptoms of psoriasis can be observed on various parts of the body:

• Scalp;
• Face – the skin can be red like in cases of rosacea, papules can form;
• On nails – increased splitting, the surface develops small pits, sometimes pink or white patches can develop underneath the nail, and it is most common on hands;
• On arms – papules on elbows, elbow insides;
• On armpits – skin becomes inflamed, but the scaling is less pronounced;
• On hands – chapped, dry fingertips, palms. Psoriatic foci on the insides of finger joint folds;
• On feet – damaged nails, outer sides of the foot;
• On knees – spots with scaly surface (can be located at the hollow of the knee);
• On penis – blemishes, inflammation, chapped skin. The skin disease can affect female genitalia as well.

What happens if psoriasis is not treated?

As mentioned before, causes of psoriasis can be various, which makes the treatment complex. Although this skin disorder cannot be treated in its entirety, it is highly advised to treat it and control it. If no measures are taken, several complications can arise:

• Psoriatic arthritis that affects not only the joints, but the bones, skin and axial skeleton, causing disability and decreasing the patient’s lifespan;
• Metabolic syndrome – multifactorial condition – increased weight in the abdominal area, high blood pressure, hypoglycaemia, etc.;
• Cardiovascular disorders – stroke, atherosclerosis;
• Eye disorders;
• Depression;
• Erectile dysfunction.

What to do in the event of developing psoriasis?

The first thing to do is to make an appointment with a dermatologist that will perform a thorough examination and determine whether the symptoms indicate the presence of psoriasis. Prof. J. Kisis’ Aesthetic Dermatology Clinic has taken part in multiple clinical studies on psoriasis; prof. J. Kisis has supervised the development of the first psoriasis treatment guidelines in Latvia. The competent experts of the clinic will be able to help both grownups and children alike in the event of this skin disease. Remember – the sooner psoriasis is diagnosed, the easier it will be to treat it and control it!