Psoriasis Studies in San Diego

Psoriasis is an infuriating skin condition. It can pop up unpredictably, and cause irritating red and white scaly skin that is sure to ruin your weekend. Dermatologists have been constantly attempting to make psoriasis a thing of the past to help people who suffer from psoriasis finally find some relief. However, it is a tricky issue, but luckily the team at California Dermatology and Research Institute in San Diego is on the case! We are constantly working to find a way to treat the symptoms of psoriasis, but first a primer in the skin condition.

What is Psoriasis?

Psoriasis is a skin disorder that has long baffled dermatologists and those afflicted alike, as it is both irritating and unpredictable.  Psoriasis occurs when the cells in your skin grow and multiply at a greatly amplified rate, sometimes up to even ten times faster than a normal skin cell would multiply. This causes a buildup of skin cells and as they reach the surface, the overabundance of skin cells cause an irritated red and raised patch covered in white flakes and scales. This occurs typically on the elbows, knees and the scalp, although it can also crop up on the bottom of the hands and feet, as well as the torso.

What are the symptoms of psoriasis

Psoriasis has some clear and unique symptoms, making it a fairly easy skin disorder to diagnosis. If you exhibit any of the following signs or symptoms of psoriasis, visit a dermatologist for treatment as soon as possible.

Plaques of red skin covered in Itchy scales

The most common symptom and defining quality of psoriasis is plaques of reddish skin that is covered in a bunch of scales. These scales are incredibly itchy and can be quite irritating and painful, sometimes even cracking and bleeding. In some cases, a small cluster of irritated skin can merge together to make a large patch of red, scaly skin.

issues with your fingernails and toenails

Those who suffer from psoriasis can also have issues with their fingernails and toenails. The nails can become discolored and begin to crumble at the nail bed. In some cases, the nail can even fully detach from the nail bed.

Crust or Scales on the Scalp 

Psoriasis can also hit your head. The skin condition can cause plaques of scales on the head. Along with the scales, you can also get a crust on the scalp underneath your hair as well.

What are the Different Types of Psoriasis?

There are numerous different kinds of psoriasis that occur in different locations throughout the body. Below you will find a few of the most prominent types of psoriasis.

Plaque Psoriasis

Plaque psoriasis is the most common form of psoriasis and is what people usually think of when they think of psoriasis. Plaque psoriasis causes dry patches of raised red skin, called plaques, that are covered with scales. These plaques can be itchy and irritable, and can vary in number from one small patch to patches all over the body.

Nail Psoriasis

As mentioned above, psoriasis can have a negative effect on the health of your fingernails and toenails, causing discoloration, strange nail growth patterns and pitting. In severe cases, the nails will separate from the nail bed or even crumble.

Guttate Psoriasis

Guttate psoriasis is seen mostly in children, adolescents, and teenagers, and is usually brought about by an illness or bacterial infection. This unique form of psoriasis features small lesions on the arms, legs, scalp, and midsection, and are in a shape that some say resembles a water drop, and are less thick than plaque psoriasis.

Inverse Psoriasis

Inverse psoriasis affects the areas of the body that are prone to a plethora of sweat, which includes the armpit, around the genitals, in the groin, and under the breasts. This form of psoriasis causes red patches of inflamed skin that is smooth to the touch and may be triggered by a fungal infection. The areas become larger and more inflamed with sweat and friction.

Pustular Psoriasis

Pustular psoriasis is a relatively rare form of psoriasis and can develop very quickly. Pustular psoriasis can either occur throughout the body in patches or in specific areas, such as on the hands, feet or fingertips. The ailment creates red and tender pus-filled blisters that come and go quite frequently. Pustular Psoriasis can also result in flu-like symptoms, including a fever, a case of the chills and diarrhea.

Erythrodermic Psoriasis

Erythrodermic psoriasis is the rarest type of psoriasis, covering the whole body of those afflicted with a red rash that is constantly peeling. The rash will severely itch and burn, causing intense discomfort.

Psoriatic Arthritis

Psoriatic Arthritis brings about joint pain along with red patches of scaly skin. Psoriatic arthritis can strike any joint, and while not as serious as other forms of arthritis, the most serious case can cause permanent disabilities and deformities.

What Causes Psoriasis?

There is no easy answer for what causes psoriasis, as the exact reason is a mystery. Scientists believe that it is a genetic disorder, as those with psoriasis have about 25 genes that are different from the average person. These genes function as part of the immune system, causing the immune system to get mixed up and promote the inflammation of psoriasis instead of fighting against it.

Scientist continue to search for the cause of psoriasis, as this discovery will make finding a cure that much easier.

What Can Trigger a Psoriasis Outbreak?

If you already know that you have psoriasis, there are some foods, activities, and environments to avoid that may trigger an outbreak. It is important to stay informed on possible triggers, as knowing what can make your psoriasis flare-up can possibly prevent the itching and embarrassment that psoriasis can cause.

Dry Skin From Cold and Dry Weather

When it is cold and dry outside, skin will naturally be less moist and dry out. Dry skin exacerbates the symptoms of psoriasis, making the chances of an outbreak more likely. Conversely, it appears that hot and sunny weather can help prevent psoriasis outbreaks.

Stress Can Trigger Psoriasis

It is a bit of a vicious cycle when it comes to stress and psoriasis. Having psoriasis can cause stress to those afflicted, and yet stress can cause a psoriasis flare-up or existing symptoms to worsen. It is a difficult cycle to control, but try to avoid getting too stressed out and you may see a decrease in psoriasis outbreaks.

Drugs and Medication Can Cause Psoriasis Flare-Ups

Before taking any new drug or medication, make sure to check with your doctor or dermatologist and let them know you have psoriasis. There are a few drugs that can cause flare-ups, including beta blockers and lithium, that should be avoided if possible.

Infections Can Lead to a Psoriasis Outbreak

There are certain infections that can lead to a psoriasis outbreak, including strep throat or tonsillitis. There is also evidence that those with HIV may be more prone to psoriasis flare-ups.

Cuts, Bruises, Bumps and Other Skin Injuries

Some people with psoriasis have reported an uptick in symptoms after receiving some kind of trauma to the skin, whether it be an injury, vaccination, or tattoo.

Smoking and Drinking Alcohol is Linked to Psoriasis

It feels like drinking alcohol and smoking is linked to every malady under the sun, and psoriasis is no different. Experts believe that cigarettes and alcohol can cause flare-ups and psoriasis symptoms to worsen.

Free Psoriasis evaluation at CDCRI in San Diego

California Dermatology and Clinical Research Institute specializes in treating skin conditions, especially psoriasis. We offer new and exciting treatments for psoriasis available to the public as well as research studies for investigational medications that may not be available elsewhere. Best of all, we won’t charge you a thing and no health insurance is required! If you are interested in finding a successful treatment for psoriasis or participating in a research study for psoriasis, contact California Dermatology and Clinical Research Institute today! Give us a call at (760) 203-3839.