What Are The Causes Of Psoriasis?
Psoriasis is one of the illnesses that has been around since time began. This skin disorder is estimated to be affecting about 3% of the current global population. Psoriasis affects the elderly, young and even unborn babies. While many develop the condition later on in their lives, in the majority of cases, people suffer from psoriasis all their lives. So what are the causes of psoriasis?
It is not surprising that the skin disorder is definitely one of the most misunderstood skin conditions. Thousands of years ago psoriasis was believed to be a milder variety of leprosy, Greeks knew it was different. They even coined a specific term for psoriasis ‘lepra,’ meaning ‘scaly skin condition.’ Nothing was done to really understand the causes of psoriasis.
In modern times it has been found that genetics, autoimmune disorders and environmental factors are the main causes of psoriasis.
the immune system is responsible for protecting the human body against microorganisms that cause diseases. In its normal function, the immune system produces white blood cells that create antibodies, which in turn fight viruses and bacteria. When special types of white blood cells, called T-cells, are produced at a faster rate, psoriasis occurs.
Such T-cells attack and invade skin cells. In the process, the natural skin cells are made to reproduce in an abnormally rapid rate. Normally it takes about 30 days for the cells to mature and slough off, however if you suffer from psoriasis this is accelerated to just 3 to 5 days. As a result dead cells pile up on the skin’s surface forming thick, crusty scales that become red and inflamed.
Sometimes the causes of psoriasis can be hard to identify, but stress could be a main contributor. It has been discovered that people who suffer from psoriasis have a greater amount of nerves in the skin that emit neuro peptides. This substance may cause flare ups, and aggravate the condition.
If you feel that the main cause is stress, then you need to tackle the problems that are making you stressed. Stress can also lead to high blood pressure, anxiety, insomnia and depression.
Another one of the causes of psoriasis is genetic. People who have one parent that suffers from psoriasis have a 10% greater chance of developing it. This drastically increases if both parents suffer from the condition.
Several research efforts have found that there are actually nine genetic mutations that possibly lead to it’s onset. Included in those mutations is the one called PSORS-1 on chromosome 6. This is scientifically identified as the most likely genetic cause of psoriasis. This type of mutation is identified as affecting skin cells production in certain parts of the body.
The environment can be another one of the causes of psoriasis. Research has shown that there are certain triggers in the environment that can cause this skin disorder. The weather, injuries, infection and lack of vitamins are found to be some of the causes of psoriasis. If you are exposed to hot and sunny weather you will find that the condition improves, however it can flare up again in cold, dry temperatures.
A cut on the skin can be one of the many causes of psoriasis. Even sunburn can trigger it. If you are prone to outbreaks of psoriasis on your skin you should protect if from harsh chemicals found in washing up liquids and other cleaning products. Use a mild shampoo, and try non bio washing powder, as residue from the chemicals can remain on the clothes and irritate the skin.
Whatever the causes of psoriasis experts state that the condition should not be taken as a curse. There are now effective treatments available to overcome the condition. Is should also be noted that it isn’t catching, so you don’t need to isolate yourself from others. Psoriasis can look very unsightly and cause embarrassment but it isn’t life threatening and can be treated.