Of the many skin diseases, a common one that ails many people is psoriasis. This disease affects the skin cells. The skin cells build up rapidly on the surface and such continuous build up results in formation of thick silvery scales. They are accompanied by itchiness and appearance of dry red patches. Sometimes such build ups can become painful too.

This is a chronic disease with the symptoms receding and aggravating alternately over a period of time. Psoriasis accompanied with arthritis is quite a painful situation to many. Others suffering from the disease learn to live with it as no proper treatment exists. Non-prescription cortisone cream can be applied for some relief. Exposure to small amount of sunlight everyday can also provide relief.

Though the basic cause of psoriasis is same in all cases, the symptoms may vary from person to person. But there are some signs that are common. Some people may show all of them while the others may show some. The first thing to note is the scaly appearance of the skin. It would look silvery and the area will have a red patch. Small scaly spots may appear though it is common in children than adults. In the extreme cases the dry areas may crack and bleed. Itching, soreness and burning sensation may be felt. In the later stages psoriasis may result in thickening of nails and stiffening and swelling of joints. Then the situation actually turns extremely painful. In extreme cases psoriasis might result in disfiguring and disabling.

There are various types of psoriasis. In the early stages they can be controlled by simple precautions and home treatments. But it is always better to get your suspicion of psoriasis confirmed by a doctor. This will help you in two ways. First, if it is not, then your doctor will tell you what it is and prescribe the remedy accordingly. Second, if it is psoriasis then he can tell you the stage it is in, its type and the chances of aggravation. You should follow the measures he prescribes if you do not want to suffer badly in the later stages.

If the symptoms show signs of aggravation contact your doctor immediately. You should also visit your doctor if you find that the discomfort is going beyond tolerable limits, making your regular tasks difficult or spoiling the texture of your skin.