When the immune system unintentionally targets healthy skin cells, it speeds up the skin cells’ life cycle and causes them to accumulate quickly on the skin’s surface, which leads to psoriasis. This results in thick, scaly plaques that may crack, bleed, or itch intensely. Though the exact cause of psoriasis isn’t fully understood, a combination of genetic, immune, and environmental factors are believed to play a role. It often runs in families and can be triggered or worsened by stress, infections, cold weather, certain medications, injuries to the skin, or lifestyle factors such as smoking and alcohol consumption.

There are several types of psoriasis, with plaque psoriasis being the most common. Other types include guttate psoriasis, inverse psoriasis, pustular psoriasis, and erythrodermic psoriasis, which can be more severe and require immediate medical attention. The symptoms may vary depending on the type, but most commonly include raised, red patches of skin covered with silvery-white scales, dry skin that may crack and bleed, and itching or burning sensations. Psoriasis can appear on the scalp, elbows, knees, back, hands, feet, or even nails, causing thickening or discoloration.

At Sanjay Rithik Hospital, we take a holistic and customized approach to psoriasis treatment. Our team of dermatologists first performs a detailed skin assessment, along with reviewing your medical history and identifying any potential triggers or underlying health conditions. This helps us develop a tailored treatment plan that offers long-term control and improves your quality of life.