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The main symptom of psoriasis is dry, itchy, sore, flaky patches of skin that form what look like silvery-white scales.
Psoriasis patches are usually:
Most people only get a few psoriasis patches, but others get them across large parts of their body. Some people have lots of smaller, scaly patches.
You may also get lots of small brown and yellow spots on the palms of your hands and soles of your feet.
You can get psoriasis in different parts of your body, but it's mostly found on the:
You can also get it in the folds of your body, such as your groin, genitals and under your breasts, or on your fingernails. The surface of your nails can have dents and pits.
You can get psoriasis at any age, but symptoms often start either between the ages of 15 and 25, or 50 and 60 .
There are usually times where your symptoms get worse (called flare-ups) and times when they're better.
Some people with psoriasis can develop psoriatic arthritis as they get older. This is an inflammatory condition that affects the joints.
You have psoriasis and:
These can be signs that you have a more serious condition or an infection.
You may also have other symptoms such as your heart beating fast, or a high temperature, or feeling hot, cold or shivery.
Do not drive to A&E. Ask someone to drive you or call 999 and ask for an ambulance.
Bring any medicines you take with you.
How your psoriasis is treated depends on the type of psoriasis you have, how severe it is, and where it is on your body.
The main treatments are:
If your psoriasis is more severe, there are other treatments, such as light therapy and medicines.
You may need a combination of different treatments.
A GP can prescribe some treatments, or you may be referred to a skin specialist (dermatologist).
Living with psoriasis can be difficult. If it affects your mental health, you may be referred to a mental health specialist.
Psoriasis is caused by your skin making more skin cells than usual, which creates patches on the skin.
It's not known why or how this happens, but it's thought to be caused by a problem with the immune system.
You're more likely to have it if a member of your family has psoriasis.
There are certain things that can make your psoriasis worse or cause a flare-up of symptoms (triggers).
Triggers can include:
Psoriasis is not contagious so you cannot catch it or spread it.
There are things you try that can help with psoriasis.
try to avoid the things that make your symptoms worse (triggers)
have a healthy, balanced diet
get regular exercise
try to reduce stress if you can
try not to drink too much alcohol
try to stop smoking, if you smoke
do not share your moisturising treatments (emollients) with anyone else
do not put your fingers into a pot of emollient – use a spoon, spatula or pump dispenser instead
do not smoke or go near naked flames if you use an emollient – clothing and bedding that's been in contact with an emollient burns more easily
NHS Better Health has free tools and support to help you get active, quit smoking and drink less
If you have psoriasis, there's a higher chance that you may develop other health issues.
You'll have regular check-ups and get advice on how to manage your health to reduce your chance of developing these conditions.
Complications of psoriasis can include:
Speak to your doctor if you notice any new symptoms or have any concerns.
You may need to change your treatment if you have psoriasis and you're planning to have a baby or are pregnant, as some medicines can be harmful.
Pregnancy can sometimes also make your symptoms worse.
Speak to your doctor or a pharmacist if you're pregnant or trying to get pregnant.
Psoriasis can be a difficult condition to live with and it's common for it to affect your mental health.
As well as support from your GP, you may find it helpful to get support from other people with psoriasis, either at a local support group or online.
There are also national charities that offer support and information about psoriasis.
Information and support for anyone affected by psoriasis.
Information and support for anyone affected by psoriasis.
