© 2012 Right Doctor

Psoriasis: Itchy, dry and flaky skin disease

© 2012 Right Doctor

What is Psoriasis?

A chronic skin condition that produces reddish scaly patches over any part of the body, more particularly on elbow points, front of the knees, mid back and scalp. In some patients whole body could be affected, while a small proportion may have joint involvement.

Dead skin cells build-up on the skin’s surface

© 2012 Right Doctor

How does one get infected?Psoriasis is caused due to rapid growth/multiplication of skin cells

Trigger factors may include:•Stress•Bacterial or viral infections•Skin injuries,•Certain drugs •Dry air or dry skin•Too much or too little sunlight

Psoriasis is not contagious. One cannot spread it to another.Psoriasis is not contagious. One cannot spread it to another.

© 2012 Right Doctor

Diagnosis

• Some patients may have itching• Many patients experience

worsening during monsoon and winter –possibly due to lack of sun exposure

• Condition can co-exist with obesity, heart diseases, diabetes etc.

Guttate-psoriasis

For diagnosis, examination by doctor- preferably by a skin specialist, is essential.For diagnosis, examination by doctor- preferably by a skin specialist, is essential.

© 2012 Right Doctor

Treatment

•Goal of the treatment is to control your symptoms and prevent infection.•Apart from medical treatment, frequent use of moisturizers helps in over coming itching and dryness.•Phototherapy, which uses light may also help.

Leading a healthy life style such as avoiding stress, alcohol and smoking, balanced diet, and adequate exposure to sun light help in over coming the problem.

Leading a healthy life style such as avoiding stress, alcohol and smoking, balanced diet, and adequate exposure to sun light help in over coming the problem.

© 2012 Right Doctor

Disclaimer : The intent of the information provided by Right Doctor is to increase public awareness and should not be treated as a medical advice. A physician should be consulted for a proper medical guidance.