Psoriasis: Causes and Treatments

Psoriasis is not contagious, it does not pass from one person to another. The often embarrasing and discomforting condition consist of red scaling rashes on various parts of the body including the face, genitals, ears, elbows, knees, buttocks, and the scalp. Psoriasis is an irritating burning and itching skin condition. There are about five types of psoriasis, such as Plaque psoriasis, Guattate psoriasis, Pustular psoriasis, Inverse psoriasis and Erythodermic psoriasis each of which having their own unique signs and symptoms. The skin itches gets cracked and starts bleeding. In serious conditions, the itching and irritation is very intense and the person usually has difficulty sleeping at night.

Causes
Defection in the immune system: If the immune system is not working properly psoriasis can develop.
Genes: A person’s chances increase in getting psoriasis if the condition is due to the genetic transmission.

There are many more factors, which may contribute to the development of psoriasis.
Ã?· Climatic factor – Chilled and dry weather can aggravate symptoms like hot weather, direct sunlight, and humidity.
Ã?· Injuries – Due to skin injuries, psoriasis patches can be formed anywhere on the body.
Ã?· Stress and anxiety – Anxiety and stress can agravate the symptoms. Stress can cause psoriasis to appear suddenly or can make symptoms worsen.
Ã?· Infections – Infections like strep throat can cause psoriasis to suddenly appear.
Ã?· Medicinal factors – Medicines like Beta-blocker can cause serious psoriasis symptoms. It is important for a person having psoriasis to inform the doctor about his/her case history and details of medication.

Treatment and Medication:
Generally, oral medicines are taken and external application of medicated ointments and lotions on the effected areas of the skin can treat of psoriasis. Topical and oral medications can be used in combination to the exposure of ultraviolet light or the sunlight. In more serious cases, medicines may be injected onto a psoriasis patch. Nail psoriasis can be treated only with oral medication. Psoriasis on the scalp usually is treated by oral medicines as well external application of medicated shampoos, selenium sulfide and zinc based shampoos and corticosteroid lotion. Regular doctor and follow up visits are very important if taking topical or oral medications. The crusts and scales of psoriasis should be removed regularly with creams, lotions or ointments applied to the skin to soften them. Visting a dermatiologist is your best bet in treating psoriasis. The main medications used for the treatment of psoriasis are Enbrel (Etanercept) Remicade (Infliximab) and Amevive (Alefacepta).