Facts about Psoriasis

What is psoriasis?

Psoriasis is a common, chronic disease in which the immune system plays a central role. The disease affects between 2-3% of the world's population. There is no cure, but it can be alleviated with treatment. Psoriasis is hereditary and is not contagious.

Psoriasis and its impact

Psoriasis can affect the skin and also lead to psoriatic arthritis, which is a form of joint inflammation. The disease affects individuals regardless of age or gender.

A chronic inflammatory systemic disease

In Sweden, approximately 250,000 to 300,000 people are estimated to have psoriasis, which makes it one of the most common public diseases. Despite the fact that many people have the disease, there is still a large knowledge gap, both among the general public and within healthcare. Outdated beliefs, such as that psoriasis is only a skin condition or that it is contagious, are still common.

For people with psoriasis, the disease means that the immune system does not work as it should. This can result in the immune system attacking its own tissue, which leads to inflammation.

Advances in research

The research provides more and more insight into psoriasis as a systemic disease that can affect more organs than just the skin. Comorbidity is common, so it is important for both patients and caregivers to be aware of symptoms that may indicate other diseases, such as cardiovascular problems, gastrointestinal problems, type 2 diabetes and inflammatory eye diseases. Keeping track of blood pressure and weight and quitting smoking are important measures to prevent or alleviate certain co-morbidities.

Variations of psoriasis

Psoriasis is relapsing, which means that the disease "flares up" in periods. The intensity and extent varies greatly between individuals. Some may have mild symptoms and be symptom-free for long periods, while others experience more severe and continuous symptoms. Psoriasis is characterized by severe new formation of skin cells, resulting in scaly, reddened, dry patches on the skin and scalp. Rashes can look different, and their extent can change over time, influenced by lifestyle and well-being.

Causes of psoriasis

The cause of psoriasis and what triggers the disease is not fully understood, but heredity plays a big role. The risk of developing the disease is higher if there is a family history. The disease can also be triggered by factors such as infections, certain drugs and psychological stress.

Joint pain

If you have psoriasis and get problems with your joints, it could be a sign of psoriatic arthritis. Joint problems are common, and psoriatic arthritis can break out even without previous symptoms of psoriasis, although this is rare. There is no direct relationship between the degree of skin symptoms and the development of psoriatic arthritis. Symptoms include stiffness, pain, tenderness in muscles and tendon attachments, and swollen joints. An early diagnosis and adequate treatment are crucial to slowing down the course of the disease.

Treatment and self-care

There is currently no treatment that can cure psoriasis or psoriatic arthritis, but individually tailored treatments can significantly relieve symptoms and improve quality of life. It is important to seek help and get an accurate diagnosis based on your symptoms.

For more information about psoriasis, treatment and self-care, please visit psoriasisforbundet.se . There are tips and advice, as well as opportunities to share other people's experiences of living with the disease.