What is Psoriasis?
Psoriasis is an unpredictable and irritating skin condition. It’s the result of skin cells multiplying faster than normal, causing the underlying cells to reach the surface and die. This creates areas of red raised skin (plaques) and/or white scales that typically occur on the knees, elbows, and scalp. Psoriasis can also affect the torso, palms, and soles of feet. It can be itchy, painful, crack, and bleed, and in more severe cases, can fill with pus or be accompanied by fever. Psoriasis can also cause your skin to appear crusty as it becomes dry, for example, crusty kneecaps are a common issue seen in individuals with psoriasis.
Research has shown that an individual’s immune system is a factor in causing psoriasis. In addition, many people report flare-ups after an emotional upset. Because of this connection, many believe that emotional stressors can serve as triggers for those who may be genetically prone to psoriasis.
As your body develops psoriasis, your emotional response can make an episode worse or better. Psoriasis can be a physical representation of emotional stress, trauma, and internal discord.