What is psoriasis of the skin?

Psoriasis is a skin condition that causes red, flaky, crusty patches of skin covered with silvery scales. These patches normally appear on your elbows, knees, scalp and lower back, but can appear anywhere on your body. Most people are only affected with small patches. In some cases, the patches can be itchy or sore.

Environmental factors

In around 2 – 3 % of the overall population suffering from psoriasis, there is an environmental factor to blame for the activation of the gene responsible for this condition. Although the triggers of psoriasis may differ from person to person, some of the well-known environmental factors leading to this skin disease are – 

1. Stress 

2. Viral or bacterial infection  

3. Skin injury (insect bites, cuts, burns, etc.) 

4.  Exposure to the sun 

 5. Medications (beta blockers, antimalarials and lithium drugs) 

VPsoriasis is characterized by itching of the skin, redness and scales all over the body and in some cases infected nails. It is necessary to know about the condition and treat it immediately to prevent the further worsening of the condition and lead a normal life.

Psoriasis is a chronic skin condition that causes skin to flake off leading to skin redness and irritation. Most people with psoriasis have thick, reddened skin with flaky, silvery patches called scales.