Psoriasis: Symptoms, Triggers and Treatments That Calm Flare-Ups

Psoriasis is a long-term immune condition that speeds up the growth of skin cells. The World Health Organization estimates it affects at least 100 million people worldwide. It is not contagious, but it can affect confidence, mental health and the joints.

For years, he wore long sleeves even in summer to hide patches on his elbows. With the right treatment and a few changes to his routine, the patches calmed down and so did his worry.

Symptoms

• Raised, scaly patches (plaques), often on the elbows, knees, scalp and lower back
• On lighter skin, patches look pink or red with silvery scales; on darker skin they may look purple, dark brown or grey
• Itching or soreness
• Pitted, thickened or discoloured nails
• Joint pain, stiffness or swelling, which may be psoriatic arthritis

Common triggers

• Stress
• Infections, especially strep throat
• Skin injury, such as cuts, scratches or sunburn
• Smoking and alcohol
• Some medicines, such as lithium and certain blood pressure drugs
• Cold, dry weather

Treatments

• Emollients (moisturisers) every day
• Topical treatments: steroid creams, vitamin D creams, coal tar and medicated shampoos for the scalp
• Light therapy (phototherapy)
• Tablets such as methotrexate for more severe psoriasis
• Biologic injections for severe or resistant psoriasis, in specialist care

Look after your whole health

Psoriasis is linked to a higher risk of heart disease, diabetes and depression. Regular check-ups, not smoking, staying active and talking about how it affects your mood all help.

“But psoriasis is just dry skin, so moisturiser alone should fix it.”

Moisturisers help, but psoriasis is an immune condition. Many people need medicated creams, light therapy or tablets and injections to control it, and it can also affect joints.

Sources: World Health Organization Global report on psoriasis; NICE guideline CG153, Psoriasis: assessment and management.