Psoriasis Causes, Reasons & Conditions on Skin

What are the Causes, Areas, Severity and who can get it?

Psoriasis is a chronic auto-immune condition in which the immune cells of the body mistakenly attack the body’s skin cells. This triggers an abnormal response, resulting in the rapid growth of cells. This rapid build-up creates silvery scales of thickened skin resulting in excessive shedding.

Psoriasis usually occurs on the scalp (scalp psoriasis), elbows, knees, lower back, and genitals. Psoriasis is not contagious, and, in most cases, the rash is limited to a few patches of skin. In severe cases, it can cover large areas of the body.

The psoriasis triggers of autoimmunity are not known, however; it tends to run in families. A genetic background or connection has been verified in many cases. According to the National Psoriasis Foundation, about 40% of people with psoriasis disease have family members suffering from skin problems.

Causes of Psoriasis

Some of the other causes of psoriasis that are believed to be psoriasis triggers are:

Extreme stress:

Mental stress is a major reason for psoriasis as it causes the body to release chemicals that boost the inflammatory response. This results in a rapid build-up of skin cells, causing a stress-induced flare-up.

Infections:

Infections like strep throat (a bacterial infection that causes inflammation and pain in the throat) in particular are linked with guttate psoriasis. Earaches, bronchitis, tonsillitis, or respiratory infections such as a cold or the flu may also be psoriasis triggers or causes of psoriasis.

Cold and dry weather:

Dry air, defused natural sunlight and cold temperatures are causes of psoriasis skin disease.

Friction and injuries to the skin:

A cut, scrape, bug bite, infection, or excessive scratching can also be psoriasis triggers.

Excessive intake of alcohol and smoking:

This can be a major reason for psoriasis as it triggers a flare-up and decreases the likelihood of psoriasis remission. It also reduces immunity and alters the immune system resulting in an increased risk of infection.

Who can get psoriasis?

Psoriasis can arise at any age, but between the ages of 15 and 25, it most frequently emerges. One in three persons with psoriasis has a relative who also has the condition, which leads researchers to conclude that the condition has a strong genetic component. Additionally, if both parents have psoriasis, there is a 50% probability that their child will also have it.

Psoriasis is more likely to develop in people with HIV or weakened immune systems. Children who experience recurrent viral and bacterial infections, especially strep throat, may be more susceptible. Chronic stress may raise the risk of acquiring psoriasis as well since it has a detrimental effect on the immune system. Smoking may not only make psoriasis more severe, but it may also contribute to the condition's early onset.

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FAQs

What is the main cause of psoriasis?

The exact cause of psoriasis is uncertain, scientists believe that there may be several contributing causes however, genetics and the immune system both have a significant impact. Psoriasis commonly runs in families, even though it can skip generations. For instance, the impact may only be felt by a grandfather and his grandson, not the child's mother.

What does the beginning of psoriasis look like?

Psoriasis signs and symptoms can vary from person to person and can include:

Red patches of skin covered with thick, silvery scales of skin cells
Dry, cracked skin that may sometimes bleed or itch
Burning or soreness on the affected skin
Thickened, pitted nails

Psoriasis has also been linked to a higher risk of psoriatic arthritis, cardiovascular diseases, type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, obesity and eye conditions like conjunctivitis. It is, therefore, necessary to undergo an effective and timely treatment to understand the exact cause of psoriasis and evaluate its symptoms. This will help in avoiding further complications.

What triggers scalp psoriasis or What Causes Scalp Psoriasis?

Scalp psoriasis causes raised, reddish, and frequently scaly patches on the scalp. The condition may result as a single spot or can take over the entire scalp. Psoriasis is an auto-immune illness that is brought on by an aberrant immune system reaction, even though the precise origin of psoriasis on the scalp is unknown. Other reasons or triggers of scalp psoriasis include a person's lifestyle, genes, infections, heavy smoking, and alcohol consumption.

Can emotional stress be a cause of psoriasis?

Stress serves as the primary catalyst for psoriasis. Excessive mental stress can lead to the body's release of chemicals that promote an inflammatory response. This results in a stress-induced psoriasis flare-up.

Why do I suddenly have psoriasis?

The exact cause of psoriasis is uncertain, but it is believed that genetics and immunity play an important role. Psoriasis can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender, or color.
The most frequent causes of psoriasis include injuries, changes in temperature (cold and dry conditions), infections like strep throat or skin infections, infections of the nails, etc. Additional factors that contribute to psoriasis include excessive stress, beta-blockers, lithium, and certain medications.