Psoriasis may be the last thing on your mind, but it’s actually one of the most common skin conditions in the world, affecting nearly 8 million people in the United States. Many people who are predisposed to psoriasis might not have symptoms, but they can get triggered at any time. While some experience only minor symptoms, for others, the pain can be so debilitating that even hot water on the skin can be painful. Knowing if you have psoriasis is important, as it can also increase your risk for other medical issues.
August is Psoriasis Awareness Month, and vybe is joining the effort to spread the word about what psoriasis is, what it looks like, who gets it, what can trigger a psoriasis outbreak, and when to seek treatment.
Yes, psoriasis is a chronic skin disease that causes a rash and there are multiple different types. Psoriasis affects people of all ages, races and ethnicities. Depending on type, the appearance and location of the rash will vary. The rash can appear anywhere on the body, depending on the type. Some types of psoriasis affect the torso, limbs and scalp, while others affect nails and skin folds.
The most common type of psoriasis is plaque psoriasis, and this appears as dry, thick, raised patches of skin that are covered with silvery-white scales (plaques). The skin rash can be itchy or painful and depending on the type, may affect your nails or joints.
The appearance of the rash can vary depending on the type of psoriasis, where it appears on the body, and the person’s skin tone. For example, on darker skin tones, psoriasis may appear as purple patches with gray scales. The rash can look and feel different on everyone, ranging from dandruff-like scales to large eruptions over much of the body.
Psoriasis occurs when an overactive immune system speeds up a person’s skin cell growth. Normal skin cells grow and shed within a month. With psoriasis, skin cells grow in just 3-4 days, piling up on the surface of the skin.
Psoriasis tends to go through cycles, flaring up for a few weeks or even months and then subsiding.
Psoriasis and eczema both produce itchy patches on the skin, but these two conditions are very different.
Eczema usually results from skin irritants, such as soaps, detergents, and other allergens. It often begins in childhood and goes away with age, while psoriasis is an autoimmune disease that lasts a lifetime.
Eczema makes skin appear red and inflamed. It may be scaly, oozing, or crusty, and there may also be rough, leathery patches. However, psoriasis patches are thicker, more raised, and often more inflamed than eczema.
When in doubt, visit your nearest vybe so we can diagnose and treat your rash promptly.
Psoriasis is not contagious, but anyone can get it. Men and women have the same chance of getting psoriasis, but white people are more likely than people of color. People with a family history of psoriasis also have a higher risk.
Psoriasis can strike at any age. Most people experience symptoms for the first time between the ages of 15-30, although some begin at 50-60.
People who are predisposed to psoriasis may stay symptom-free for years until the disease is triggered by one or more of these factors:
1.Stress
Stress is one of the most common triggers of psoriasis – yet psoriasis flare-ups tend to cause additional stress, potentially creating an endless loop. Managing stress and using relaxation techniques like breathing exercises or meditation can help lessen the impact.
2.Illness
Anything that affects your immune system can also trigger psoriasis, especially strep throat, bronchitis, or HIV. Many psoriasis flare-ups occur 2-6 weeks after infection. Be sure to let your vybe provider know that you have psoriasis if you test positive or receive medication for any type of infection.
3.Skin Injury
Psoriasis can appear on any part of your skin that is injured or harmed, including sunburns, bug bites, poison ivy, or vaccinations. Known as the Koebner phenomenon, psoriasis flare-ups typically occur just 10-14 days after skin injury.
4.Weather
Cold weather can also trigger psoriasis flare-ups, due to less sunlight and humidity combined with drier indoor air. Warm weather, natural sunlight, and higher humidity can all improve psoriasis. Moisturize more often during the winter months to help seal in moisture and prevent flaking and cracking skin.
5.Diet
Eating too much refined sugar, fatty red meat, or dairy can increase psoriasis flare-ups, as does drinking alcohol. A balanced diet consisting of lean protein, fish, fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and small amounts of low-fat dairy can help reduce inflammation and keep psoriasis at bay.
Yes, there are multiple types of psoriasis defined by the rash’s appearance and location on the body. Some of the most common types are plaque, guttate, inverse and psoriatic. Plaque psoriasis is the most common type, and it is found on the elbows, knees and scalp. Guttate can be found on the trunk, upper arms and thighs. Inverse psoriasis is found in the armpits, groin and skin folds. Psoriatic psoriasis affects the joints and nails.
Whether your rash is caused by psoriasis or something else, be sure to seek medical care right away if:
● Your rash is accompanied by a high-grade fever
● Your rash becomes painful
● You notice anything new or different about your rash
● Your current medication no longer seems to be working
vybe can examine and diagnose your rash, provide effective treatment, and refer you to a specialist if needed.
There are so many different reasons for rashes, from allergies to poison ivy to psoriasis. Without medical help, figuring out the source of your rash can be tough, and vybe is here to help. All vybe locations are open seven days a week and have licensed medical professionals with a wide range of healthcare knowledge. Walk in or schedule an appointment online today!
FIND YOUR VYBE
