Psoriasis is a very common disease. Some people who have not been properly diagnosed by a qualified dermatologist may not realize that they have the disease. There is no research yet to tell us what causes Psoriasis, but so far we know that it is closely related to genetic link. Normally our skin consists of two layers, the top and bottom layers. Every month our skins go through a lifestyle process, a new skin is formed at the bottom layer and slowly pushes to the top layer. The top layer stays alive for a period of 28 to 30 days and gradually gets replaced.
When someone suffers from Psoriasis, this process happens much faster. This cycle happens in only 3 to 4 days. The cells force themselves through the top layer of the skin and the resultant effect is a buildup of dead skin on the surface. This buildup can show up anywhere on the skin surface including the elbow, scalp, knees and knuckles. These patchy areas, which are red in color is known as plaques.
There are symptoms that you can watch out for. Even if you experienced any of them, it should not be taken as a conclusion that you have Psoriasis. You must seek medical opinion. Flare-ups can occur anywhere on the body especially areas of trauma, constant rubbing or scratching, abrasions or any part where there is injury. It is usually red/pinkish patches of thick, raised, and/dry skin. Since our genetic makeup is different, the effects of people are usually not the same. On some folks, it can be small bumps or large areas of patchy, raised skin.
Psoriasis can only be properly diagnosed by a medical expert and you should seek one if you experienced one/or many of the above symptoms.
