Reviewed by medical experts • For informational purposes only
Causes and triggers of psoriasis. It is not contagious.
Psoriasis is a long-term skin condition caused by an overactive immune system. It makes skin cells grow far too quickly, so they pile up as thick, scaly patches. It is not infectious and cannot be caught from another person.
What happens in the body
T cells, a type of immune cell, become overactive and release inflammatory signals. Skin cells that normally renew in about a month renew in about 3 to 5 days, forming plaques.
Main contributors
Common triggers
What does not cause it
Psoriasis is not caused by poor hygiene, a particular food or an infection of the skin. It is not contagious.
Ayurvedic view (interpretive)
Ayurveda compares chronic scaly skin conditions with Kushta, such as Ekakushta and Kitibha, and links them with Vata and Kapha imbalance and impaired digestion. This is a traditional framework, not a modern diagnosis.
When to get help
See a dermatologist for patchy scaly skin that does not clear, for joint pain or stiffness, or if psoriasis affects daily life.
Remember
Psoriasis is inherited in tendency, driven by the immune system, and not contagious. Knowing your triggers helps control flares.
Written By
Dr. Daksh
BDS
Reviewed By
Dr. Varun Gupta
MD Pharmacology, MBBS
Last updated on
27 Sep 2022 • 06:23 PM (IST)
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