Psoriasis is a skin disorder characterized by red, swollen skin lesions covered with silvery white scales. Psoriasis is not infectious.

» Causes:-

Psoriasis is an inherited disease, however there are certain triggering factors such as injury to skin, vaccinations and certain medications have been responsible for the development of this condition.  Excessive alcohol consumption, obesity, lack of or overexposure to sunlight, stress, cold climate and general poor health result in flaring up of psoriasis.

» Symptoms:-
• skin patches- dry, red and covered with silvery scales, may crack and becomes painful  usually found on the elbows, knees, trunk, scalp, hand and nails.
• Skin lesions- formation of pustules, cracking of skin and redness, itching.
• Small scaling dots on the skin.
• Joint pains.
• Additional symptoms that may be associated with the disease are nail abnormalities, lesion on the genitals, burning, itching and discharge from the eye.

» Management:-

Maintain a general good health which can help reduce the risk of flareups. Adequate rest and exercise, a well balanced diet and treatment of infections can help in making the treatment effective.  General skin hygiene should be maintained by taking daily bath.