About Psoriasis

What is Psoriasis?

Psoriasis (pronounced as - sore-eye-ah-sis) is a chronic disease, autoimmune, not contagious disease whose symptom is gray, or silvery flaky patches on the skin which are reddish and inflamed underneath.

Areas which includes knees, arms, scalp, elbows, stomach and back are affected mostly. People around a quarter, affected with Psoriasis also suffers from Psoriatic Arthritis. Effect of Psoriatic Arthritis is quite similar to Rheumatoid Arthritis. Austrian dermatologist Ferdinand von Hebra in 1841 gave Psoriasis name to this disease when he found condition completely different from other skin conditions.

Psoriasis affected persons may experience intense physical discomfort, and some disability. Itching and pain can be common while doing some basic functions, such as walking, self-care, and sleep. Psoriatic Plaques on hands and feet may prevent persons from working at some occupations, playing some sports, and caring for family members or a home. The regular medical care is quite costly and can interfere with an employment or school schedule. Individuals with moderate to severe Psoriasis can feel self-conscious about their appearance and have a very bad self-image that stems from fear of public rejection and psychosexual concerns. Also psychological distress may bring on heavy depression and social isolation.