Psoriasis is a skin disease that affects skin cells. Psoriasis causes cells to build up on the surface of the skin, forming thick scales and dry, red patches that are itchy and sometimes painful. This disease affects over 7 million people in the U.S. alone.
Country singer LeAnn Rimes has psoriasis and is outspoken about her condition, which once covered 80 percent of her skin.
“Psoriasis is a predisposition for your immune system to react with your skin,” said Dr. Ellen Marmur, chief of the Division of Dermatologic and Cosmetic Surgery at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City. “Something that would normally… trigger a little, tiny reaction in most of us triggers a domino effect in somebody with psoriasis.”
Beneath the surface, a psoriasis patient’s immune system overreacts and begins to attack itself. This abnormal activity is characteristic of an autoimmune disease such as multiple sclerosis or rheumatoid arthritis.
Outbreaks are usually triggered by environmental factors like skin injuries; cold weather, infections, such as strep throat; bad reactions to medications; and even stress.
This disease can range from mils and hardly noticeable, to completely debilitating. There are some things that you can do to help your condition. Over the counter cortisone creams and exposure to sunlight can help. Prescription treatments like topical medications, home phototherapy equipment, and systemic medications are also used for psoriasis treatment.