There are seven types of psoriasis, each with its symptoms and treatment options. Here’s a quick guide to the most common types of this chronic skin condition.
1. Plaque Psoriasis
Plaque psoriasis is the most common type, affecting about 80 percent of people with the condition. It causes red patches of skin with a flaky white buildup. These patches, or plaques, can be itchy and painful. They often appear on the scalp, knees, elbows, and lower back.
2. Guttate Psoriasis
Guttate psoriasis often starts in childhood or young adulthood. It is characterized by small, red, scaly patches on the trunk, arms, and legs.
Unlike plaque psoriasis, guttate psoriasis is often triggered by a bacterial infection such as strep throat. It can also be triggered by certain medications, stress, or injury to the skin.
3. Inverse Psoriasis
Inverse psoriasis is a type of psoriasis that affects the skin folds, such as the armpits, groin, and under the breasts. It is characterized by red, inflamed patches of skin that are free from the scale typical of other types of psoriasis.
Inverse psoriasis is often aggravated by friction and moisture. It can also be triggered by certain medications, obesity, or fungal infection.
4. Pustular Psoriasis
Pustular psoriasis is a rare but severe type that causes pus-filled blisters. These blisters can be itchy and painful and often occur on the palms of the hands or the soles of the feet.
Pustular psoriasis can be triggered by certain medications, infections, or chemical exposure. It is often associated with other types of psoriasis, such as plaque or inverse psoriasis.
5. Erythrodermic Psoriasis
Erythrodermic psoriasis is a rare and severe type that affects the entire skin surface. It is characterized by red, inflamed skin that peels off in sheets.
Erythrodermic psoriasis can be triggered by certain medications, infections, or extreme sunburn. It is a medical emergency that requires immediate treatment.
6. Psoriatic Arthritis
Psoriatic arthritis is a type of arthritis that affects people with psoriasis. It causes inflammation, pain, and stiffness in the joints and damage to the tendons and ligaments.
Psoriatic arthritis can be mild or severe. It often affects the hands, feet, spine, and knees. In some cases, it can lead to disability.
7. Nail Psoriasis
Nail psoriasis is a type of psoriasis that affects the fingernails and toenails. It is characterized by pitted, thickened, or discolored nails. In severe cases, the nails can become separated from the nail bed.
Nail psoriasis is often associated with other types of psoriasis, such as plaque psoriasis or psoriatic arthritis. It can also be triggered by certain medications, infections, or injuries.
If you think you may have one of these types of psoriasis, see your doctor for a diagnosis and treatment options.
Conclusion
As you’ve seen, there are seven types of psoriasis. But don’t worry, you don’t have to memorize all of them. Remember that there are different types of this skin conditions, and each type can present itself in different ways.
If you think you may have psoriasis, the best thing to do is to see a doctor or dermatologist. They will be able to diagnose you and prescribe the best treatment for your particular case.
And finally, don’t forget that psoriasis is a chronic condition. There is no cure, but there are treatments that can help manage it. You can live a long and healthy life despite having psoriasis with the proper treatment and support.
