Psoriasis is a chronic condition where skin cells rapidly multiply and build up on the epidermis. You can have psoriasis flare-ups, and each episode can be mild or severe.
Symptoms
Symptoms of psoriasis include thickened nails, a red rash covered in silver scales and itching.
Location
According to the National Psoriasis Foundation, psoriasis can occur on any part of the body.
Causes
The cause of psoriasis is unclear, according to the Mayo Clinic. Psoriasis is an autoimmune disease in which your white blood cells called T-cells attack your healthy skin. Triggers such as stress, infection, smoking and medications can lead to psoriasis flare-ups.
Treatments
Treatments for psoriasis include topical creams or ointments such as topical corticosteroids and coal tar to reduce inflammation. According to the Mayo Clinic, exposing your skin to light such as ultraviolet B light can also treat your psoriasis.
Statistics
According to the National Psoriasis Foundation, 7.5 million people in the United States suffer from psoriasis as of November 2009.
