Psoriasis: More Than Just a Skin Condition

medyouthalliance
4 days ago
3 min read

By Titilayo Taoreed, for @medyouthalliance

When you think of psoriasis, your mind might go straight to dry, flaky skin or red patches. But if you're someone interested in medicine, it’s important to understand that psoriasis isn’t just a skin problem. It’s a chronic autoimmune condition with broader impacts, both physically and mentally.

What actually is psoriasis?

Psoriasis is a long-term autoimmune disease where the immune system speeds up the production of skin cells. Normally, skin cells grow and shed over a few weeks. In psoriasis, this process happens in just a few days, causing skin cells to build up on the surface and form red, scaly patches known as plaques.

According to the NHS, psoriasis affects about 2 in every 100 people in the UK. It can develop at any age but commonly begins between the ages of 15 and 35, making it especially relevant for young people.

Common symptoms to look out for:

Symptoms can vary depending on the type of psoriasis. However, the most common include:

Red, raised patches of skin covered with silvery scales (plaque psoriasis is the most common form)
Itching, soreness or burning sensations
Dry, cracked skin that may bleed
Nail changes such as pitting, thickening or discolouration
Joint pain or stiffness, especially if the condition progresses into psoriatic arthritis

Psoriasis is not contagious, but because it is often visible, it can have a significant effect on confidence and wellbeing.

Understanding the immune system link

Psoriasis is caused by an overactive immune response. T cells, which normally protect the body from infection, mistakenly attack healthy skin cells. This triggers an increase in skin cell production and inflammation.

There isn’t a single cause, but genetics and environmental triggers both play a role. Factors such as infections, stress, smoking and certain medications can all lead to flare-ups. The Mayo Clinic offers a detailed explanation of these triggers, which can help in understanding the broader context.

Mental health and psoriasis

Living with psoriasis doesn’t just affect the skin. Many people experience a psychological burden as well. Young people, in particular, may struggle with self-image, anxiety or depression related to the visibility of their condition.

Research shows that individuals with psoriasis are more likely to experience:

Low self-esteem
Social withdrawal
Anxiety and depression
Higher levels of stress, which can, in turn, worsen symptoms

As someone interested in healthcare, it's important to remember that skin conditions can impact patients emotionally and socially, not just physically.

Treatment options and lifestyle management

While there is no permanent cure for psoriasis, a number of treatments can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life. These include:

Topical treatments such as corticosteroid creams and vitamin D analogues
Phototherapy using controlled doses of ultraviolet (UV) light
Systemic treatments, including immunosuppressants and biologic therapies

In addition, lifestyle factors can make a big difference. Reducing stress, maintaining a healthy diet, stopping smoking and avoiding alcohol are all recommended to help reduce flare-ups.

The NHS provides a clear overview of treatment options and tips for daily management.

Why it matters

For aspiring medics, recognising the deeper nature of conditions like psoriasis helps develop a more holistic view of patient care. It’s not just about treating what we see ,it’s about understanding the full impact on a person’s life. Psoriasis serves as a reminder that chronic conditions often cross over between physical and mental health.