If you have some formations on your skin that look like scales, or are itchy or come in red patches, you might be suffering from psoriasis. It is a chronic skin condition that comes due to the speeding up of skin cell cycles. They can be quite painful too. The condition is long-term with frequent remissions and even flare-ups. Identifying the type of psoriasis through types of psoriasis photos, is an effective way to get the right kind of treatment.
- Plaque Psoriasis: The most common form of psoriasis, patients who have this have red lesions on the skin that are raised and covered with white scales. They could be on the scalp, elbows, knees or lower back. Typically, the skin around the joint may crack and bleed. Look for well-defined red patches covered with thick, silvery scales. The scales often appear on extensor surfaces such as elbows and knees.
- Guttate Psoriasis: This form of psoriasis mostly starts in childhood or young adulthood. It appears as small, dot-like lesions and is the second most common type. It can be triggered by respiratory infections, strep throat, or stress. Look for small, drop-shaped sores on the trunk, arms, legs, and scalp. The lesions are typically covered by a fine scale and spread rapidly.
- Inverse Psoriasis: Also known as intertriginous psoriasis, occurs in skin folds such as under the breasts, around the groin, or in the armpits, in the form of smooth, red lesions. If there are red, shiny lesions without the typical scale of plaque psoriasis then it could be a sure case of inverse psoriasis. The affected areas are usually moist and may develop fissures due to skin rubbing.
- Pustular Psoriasis: Here, white pustules form surrounded by red skin. It commonly affects the hands and feet, essentially covering a large area of the body. Visually, they are white pustules on red, inflamed skin. If they are contained to smaller areas, then they could be on the palms or soles. Mostly though, they could be in the form of widespread pustules.
- Erythrodermic Psoriasis: This is a rare, yet severe form that could see the body covered with a red, peeling rash. It can be very itchy and can burn intensely. It is severe because it can be life-threatening due to its ability to alter the body’s ability to regulate temperature and protect against infections. The most distinct identifying feature is the widespread redness on the entire body, looking almost like a severe case of sunburn.
- Nail Psoriasis: As the name itself suggests, this type of psoriasis affects the fingernails and the toenails. It causes pitting, abnormal nail growth and even discoloration. In some cases, the nails could also become loose and fall off. The most distinct way to identify nail psoriasis is to see if the nail is falling off or if there is pitting or discolorations.
- Psoriatic Arthritis: Another potentially severe case of psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis is when skin symptoms of psoriasis and joint inflammations combine. It is almost like arthritis and psoriasis rolled into one. It can lead to joint damage and severe physical disability if not treated. Look for symptoms of psoriasis on the skin combined with swollen, tender, and painful joints. The joints most commonly affected are the fingers, toes, and lower back.
Recognizing Psoriasis through Images
Identifying the type of psoriasis through types of psoriasis photos, is an effective way to get the right kind of treatment. Each condition commands a different kind of treatment and hence the importance of understanding the type of psoriasis through photos.
Importance of Professional Diagnosis
While photos of psoriasis are very helpful in determining the type of psoriasis, it is best to consult a doctor for the most accurate diagnosis. This helps in getting a tailored treatment plan that suits the particular condition. Psoriasis can also sometimes be mistaken for other skin conditions, making it imperative to consult a healthcare professional.
Understanding the types of psoriasis photos plays a very pivotal role in determining the type of psoriasis one has contracted. Psoriasis is a chronic skin condition and should not be taken lightly. Some forms are very painful and are even so lethal that they can be life-threatening. It is very crucial that one who has psoriasis get the right treatment and that it is diagnosed as early as possible to get the best treatment early itself. Since the condition can look like other skin conditions, always consult a skiing specialist for the best diagnosis.