Medical Definision:
Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune disease that causes rapid skin cell turnover, leading to scaly patches, inflammation, and discomfort.
Causes:
- Overactive immune system mistakenly attacks healthy skin cells
- Genetic predisposition (family history of psoriasis)
- Triggers like infections, stress, and cold weather
- Smoking, alcohol, and certain medications can worsen flare-ups
Sypmtoms:
- Red, raised patches covered with silvery-white scales
- Itching, burning, or soreness
- Dry, cracked skin that may bleed
- Thickened, ridged, or pitted nails
- Joint pain and stiffness (in psoriatic arthritis)
- Commonly affects the scalp, elbows, knees, lower back, and feet
