Be in the know about psoriasis! Psoriasis is a fairly common condition of the skin, with symptoms that vary from person to person. Because psoriasis accelerates the growth of skin cells, they build up at a rapid pace on the surface of the skin, which results in a raised and scaly appearance. Although people tend to shy away from people who have psoriasis, the condition is not contagious, as it is an autoimmune disease. There is no known cure for psoriasis, but there are ways to manage the symptoms of the disorder. Even though psoriasis can't be passed from person to person via touching, this condition can be hereditary, and the chances of a person being diagnosed with psoriasis increases significantly if they have a parent who has the disorder. The top three treatments for psoriasis include Methotrexate, Cortizone-10, and light therapy. Read on to find out more about psoriasis.

Some of the symptoms of psoriasis are very pronounced and easy to recognize, including burning, itchyness, and soreness of the skin. Psoriasis can cause the skin to become extremely dry and crack, which can be quite painful. This condition also causes the skin to become red with a patch-like appearance and a covering of thick silvery scales. Topical corticosteroids like Cortizone-10 can help alleviate itchy skin, and red patches. Depending on the severity of the psoriasis, a doctor may prescribe a stronger corticosteroid ointment. Vitamin D therapy is often recommended as a part of a treatment plan for psoriasis. Vitamin D produced by natural sunlight or artificial light helps to slow the production of skin cells as well as reduce inflammation and scarring. It is important to be mindful of the time spent in the sun, or in an ultraviolet light box as intense exposure to natural or artificial sunlight can cause the symptoms of psoriasis to worsen, further damaging the skin.

Psoriasis is associated with depression in some people. Because psoriasis can produce unsightly patches, some people tend to become withdrawn, shying away from the public because they are so self-conscious about their condition. Some people turn to alcohol to deal with their depression, which can cause the symptoms of psoriasis to worsen. For those taking a prescription for psoriasis like Methotrexate, drinking alcohol could interfere with the effectiveness of the drug. People should try to avoid drinking alcohol, especially when they are having a psoriasis flare up. Individuals who feel like they are becoming depressed, or have more of a concern regarding their appearance than they had in the past, should mention this to their physician. There are also support groups for people who have psoriasis that could be helpful as well.

Psoriasis can manifest itself anywhere on the human body, including the scalp, legs, arms, underneath the breast, on the feet, elbows, knees and even in the groin area. Fortunately, there are a host of things people can do to take care of their skin when they are having a psoriasis outbreak. It is important to take baths every day, and use a moisturizer whether or not there is evidence of a flare up. Bathing helps to soothe inflamed skin and exfoliate scales. Bathing in Epsom salts or bath oil can also help. 

Psoriatic arthritis is a constant risk for people who suffer from psoriasis. This form of arthritis causes joint pain, stiffness and swelling and almost always occurs after a psoriasis diagnosis. The affects of psoriatic arthritis can happen anywhere in the body. Some of the biggest problems associated with this form of arthritis include foot pain, lower back pain, and swollen fingers and toes. There is no cure for psoriatic arthritis, but several treatments exist to help people manage symptoms and retain joint mobility. The most common treatments include anti-inflammatory drugs, immunosuppressive medications, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. Apremilast, sold under the brand name Otezla, is among the newest treatments approved for the treatment of psoriatic arthritis.