What are the Symptoms of Psoriasis?

Psoriasis is a skin disorder that affects millions of people the world over. The symptoms of this condition manifest in a number of ways.

Inflammation

One of the most common symptoms of psoriasis is raised, red patches of skin that are referred to as plaques. These thick patches of skin often occur at the elbows and knees and are caused by inflammation.

Scaly Skin

The areas affected by psoriasis are usually covered with silvery, dandrufflike scales. The underlying skin takes on a rough and almost cobblestoned texture.

Itching

The patches of skin caused by psoriasis tend to itch painfully, and the patient may experience a burning sensation. Severe cases of psoriasis may be characterized by sore, dry, cracked skin, which may bleed.

Joint Stiffness

Psoriasis may cause painful swelling and stiffness at the joints, which tends to restrict motion.

Blisters

A relatively uncommon symptom, blisters may develop in the affected areas, drying up after two days only to reappear weeks later.