How can you tell the difference between mild irritations and more serious skin conditions? Psoriasis, which is marked by red, itchy plaques and bumps, as well as rashes or blisters on the skin, affects between 2 and 3 percent of Americans. Cold weather and wind, just like dry skin, can cause flare-ups in psoriasis patients. It’s crucial to diagnose Psoriasis first because the symptoms, causes, and treatments vary from person to person.
Dry Skin vs. Psoriasis
Dry skin is medically known as xerosis Cutis. It means that the molecules called lipids, which are essential for skin cells, have been reduced, and moisture has been drained from the outermost layer. Psoriasis, an autoimmune condition, causes rapid growth of skin cells, which can cause raised lesions. These lesions are often red, scaly, and itchy. The disease is not contagious and usually develops in the late teens to mid-30s.
What causes each?
It can be as simple as a change in climate or washing your hands too much during a cleaning spree. This can be caused by prescriptions or medical conditions like thyroid disease, diabetes, or hormone imbalances. About one-third of those who have Psoriasis also have a family member with the disease. Researchers have not yet pinpointed exactly why some people get Psoriasis and others do not.
Signs & Symptoms
You can recognize signs of dryness by thinking back to a harsh winter or an air-conditioned summer. Dry skin can look and feel dull, rough, and irritated. Untreated or exposed harsh elements can cause it to become even more annoyed, cracking, or peeling. Psoriasis is most commonly seen as raised and reddened plaques. The pain and itching can vary from mild to severe. Other types of Psoriasis can be identified by symptoms such as blisters or peeling, red patches in the skin folds.
Road to Recovery
Preventing dry skin by using a moisturizer or a humidifier can help. If you’re not getting the results you want from home remedies, your dermatologist may prescribe stronger creams, or an antihistamine. According to the National Psoriasis Foundation, mild Psoriasis can be controlled with topical treatments like menthol shampoo for scalp itching or moisturizers containing salicylic acids. The more serious cases will usually be treated using a multifaceted strategy, which may include prescription drugs or even phototherapy.