Psoriasis On The Body & Scalp

Psoriasis is an auto-immune disease.  Since our immune system protects our entire body it is possible for symptoms of psoriasis to appear anywhere on the body. However, research has shown that certain areas of our body are more common locations for psoriasis than others. Let’s take a look at some of these areas and learn more about psoriasis affects our body. Keep in mind that psoriasis that psoriasis can occur on anyone of any race, gender and age.

Psoriasis on the Face

When psoriasis occurs on the face there are several common locations where it is usually found. It will most often affect areas such as the skin between your upper lip and nose. The upper forehead or hairline is also very common. Some individuals even break out in their eyebrows and around the eyes. When treating psoriasis on the face great care must be taken because the skin on the face is more sensitive then on the rest of our body. In rare cases when psoriasis appears around the mouth and nose it may also appear in the mouth on the gums, tongue or cheek.  It can also appear on the inside of the nose and be very uncomfortable.

Psoriasis on Elbows & Knees

The most common place where psoriasis is found is on the elbows and knees. Conditions can range from simple itching and redness with some mild flaking, to severe plaque buildup with a silver scale like look. The constant use of our bendable parts can often cause cracking and sometimes bleeding can occur. Having psoriasis on joint areas for longer than 10 years may lead to psoriatic arthritis in some individuals. If you begin to experience pain in your joint areas you should consult with your doctor about the condition.

Psoriasis On the Scalp

If you have psoriasis on any other part of your body there is a 50% chance you will also get psoriasis on your scalp. Scalp psoriasis can occur around the hairline or throughout the entire scalp. If left untreated scaly build up can cause severe dandruff problems and even temporary hair loss. Mild cases appear as small dry patches that may cause itching and some light dandruff.

Psoriasis on Hands & Feet

Around 25% of the individuals who suffer with psoriasis have it on their hands and feet. Because we put so much demand on our hands and feet on a daily basis, psoriasis in these areas can be very irritating. Even minor cases of just dry flaky skin can become cracked and bleed. In severe cases the layers of skin may thicken quickly leading to corns and calluses. Typically the skin becomes dry, hard and often reddened. From the constant use of our hands and feet, cracks may begin to appear as the skin thickens.

Psoriasis on the Entire Body

Psoriasis can be present on all parts of the skin. It is common to find it on the lower back and on the trunk of our body. Individuals who suffer with psoriasis that covers more than 30% of their body should speak with their doctor about treating the disease systemically rather than using topical solutions.

Psoriasis on the Nails

Psoriasis on the nails is quite common. Usually the nails on the hand are affected more frequently than the feet. Early symptoms may include dryness and redness. If the psoriasis worsens or is left untreated, the nails may eventually have deep ridges and become pitted. The nails may also turn yellowish in color and thicken over time. In severe cases the nails may become very fragile and could fall off.

Psoriasis on Genitals

Psoriasis in the genital area does not become thick and scaly like plaque psoriasis. It is most common to find inverse psoriasis in these areas which appears more smooth, dry and very red. Some individuals may have psoriasis on the genitals and nowhere else on the body. Others may have it in addition to psoriasis on the body. It can be minimal such as just small red spots. Or large red patches can form. Since the skin in this area is very sensitive caution should be taken when choosing the correct treatment product for genital psoriasis.

Psoriatic Arthritis

If you begin to have tender, swollen joints or even back pain in addition to your psoriasis, then you may be experiencing psoriatic arthritis. Other symptoms may include general fatigue, stiffness in the morning and a reduced range of motion in the joint areas. Sometimes changes in the nails and redness surrounding the eyes can also be early symptoms of psoriatic arthritis. It is important to catch psoriatic arthritis early because without treatment it is potentially disabling. Whether you have mild or severe psoriasis it is possible for you to develop psoriatic arthritis.

Can Psoriasis Occur Anywhere On The Body?

From what you have just read you can quickly understand that psoriasis can occur anywhere on the body. However, it is very important to understand that the majority of people will only see the symptoms of psoriasis on small areas of their body. Psoriasis is not contagious and doesn’t spread if you scratch it. Your best defense against this disease is knowledge. There are no known cures for psoriasis right now but there are some excellent treatments that can control your psoriasis.