FAQs about PsoriaSiblings

PsO is a chronic (long-lasting) autoimmune condition that currently has no cure, but its symptoms can be managed with an appropriate treatment plan from your doctor.

Early signs usually include an itchy rash, red patches of skin covered with flaky, silvery scales, which commonly appear on the elbows, knees, or scalp. You might also notice dry, cracked skin that may itch, burn, or bleed.

PsO is caused by an overactive immune system that mistakenly speeds up the growth of skin cells, causing them to build up rapidly on the surface. This immune response is believed to be triggered by a combination of genetic factors and environmental triggers.

Flare-ups are often triggered by factors such as stress, skin injuries (like cuts or sunburns), infections like strep throat, and cold, dry weather. Certain medications and alcohol use can also cause symptoms to worsen.

You might have PsO if you notice persistent, raised red patches of skin topped with flaky, silvery scales that itch or burn. If you experience this, see a doctor to look at your skin.

A doctor or dermatologist usually diagnoses PsO through a physical examination of your skin, scalp, and nails. In rare cases, they may take a small skin sample (a biopsy) to confirm the diagnosis.

Yes, genetics may play a key role, and having a family member with PsO could increase your risk. However, not everyone with the genes for PsO will develop the condition, as environmental triggers are also involved.

PsA is a chronic inflammatory disease that affects the joints and entheses (the areas where tendons and ligaments connect to bone). If left untreated, the inflammation may cause permanent joint damage and lead to disability.

You may have PsA if you have PsO and experience persistent joint pain, stiffness (especially in the morning), or swollen fingers or toes. These symptoms often occur alongside nail or scalp PsO.

Early signs include joint stiffness in the morning, tenderness or swelling in joints, nail changes, and fatigue. You might also notice pain in entheses where tendons and ligaments attach to your bones, such as in the back of your heel or the sole of your foot.

Yes, in some cases, joint problems may begin before any skin patches appear. For a small number of people, the skin condition may never develop at all.

A rheumatologist diagnoses PsA through a physical exam, blood tests to check for inflammation, and imaging like X-rays or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans. Imaging is crucial for revealing joint damage that helps confirm the diagnosis and track its progression.

PsA is a chronic condition that currently has no cure. However, early medical treatment and an appropriate treatment plan from your doctor may help control inflammation, manage symptoms, and inhibit further damage to your joints.

Yes, there is a genetic link, as some people with PsA have a family history of PsO or arthritis. Like PsO, having certain genes could increase your risk of PsA.

PsA occurs when the body's immune system mistakenly attacks healthy joint tissue and tendons, causing chronic inflammation. It is believed to result from a combination of genetic susceptibility and environmental factors, though the exact trigger is unknown.

IBD is a term for chronic conditions that cause inflammation in the digestive tract, with the most common forms being Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis. This inflammation can lead to symptoms like diarrhea, abdominal pain, and weight loss.

Common symptoms include persistent diarrhea, urgent bowel movements, abdominal pain, rectal bleeding, and unexplained weight loss. You might also feel tired, experience fever, or have a reduced appetite.

A gastroenterologist diagnoses IBD using a combination of tests, including blood and stool tests, along with procedures like a colonoscopy or endoscopy to view the digestive tract directly. Imaging tests like computed tomography (CT) or MRI scans may also be used to see the extent of inflammation.

All 3 conditions may be caused by the same underlying problem: an overactive immune system that creates chronic inflammation in different parts of the body. Because of this shared cause, having PsO may increase your risk of developing PsA and, to a lesser extent, IBD.

While the risk may be higher than in the general population, most people with PsO do not develop IBD. You should speak with your doctor if you experience persistent digestive symptoms like diarrhea, abdominal pain, or bloody stools.