Psoriasis is a skin condition which causes red, scaly patches to form on the skin. It can be uncomfortable or even painful and can have a negative impact on your confidence in your appearance. It is estimated that nearly 7.5 million people between the ages of 15 and 30 will develop psoriasis.
What Causes Psoriasis?
Psoriasis is an auto-immune disease with causes that are largely unknown. It is believed that the disease is passed down genetically and is triggered by the immune system, causing an increase of skin cell growth. It has been found that the disease can lay dormant until exposed to a trigger, which activates the process of excess cell production. Symptoms of psoriasis include:
- Red patches on the skin which are covered in scaly, silvery cells
- Small scaly spots
- Dry skin which may crack and bleed
- Itching and burning
- Swollen, stiff joints
- Changes in finger and toenails
