Psoriasis is an inflammatory chronic skin disorder. This disease characterized by skin scaling and inflammation. The patches of plaques are often found on the arms, legs, trunk, or scalp, but may be found on any part of the skin. There are several types of psoriasis each with unique symptoms.
All types of psoriasis usually cause discomfort. About 10 percent of people with psoriasis suffer from joint inflammation with some symptoms of arthritis.
Diagnosis is made by a physician or other health care provider after examination of the affected skin. Less often, biopsy of the skin used to make diagnosis.
Treatment depends on the severity and type of psoriasis. Usually first line treatment consists of topical (skin applied) medication. The second line is phototherapy (treatment with light). The third line is oral medications accompanied with topical treatment. In some cases intravenous treatment is preferred.
The ultraviolet (UV) light from the sun slows the production of skin cells and reduces inflammation. The Dead Sea water is said to have a therapeutic effect on the skin due to its high salt and mineral content. Psoriatic arthritis can be treated with applications of Dead Sea mud to affected joints and regular baths in sulfur pools, combined with sun exposure and bathing in the Dead Sea.