Psoriasis On Scalp : Symptoms, Causes
Psoriasis typically causes patches of skin that are dry, red and covered in silver scales. Some people find their psoriasis causes itching or soreness.
Symptoms of mild scalp psoriasis may include only slight, fine scaling. Symptoms of moderate to severe scalp psoriasis include:
Scaly, red, bumpy patches
Silvery-white scales
Dandruff-like flaking
Dry scalp
Itching
Burning or soreness
Hair loss
Scalp psoriasis itself doesn’t cause hair loss, but scratching a lot or very hard, picking at the scaly spots, harsh treatments, and the stress that goes along with the condition can lead to temporary hair loss. Fortunately, your hair usually grows back after your skin clears.
If you have any of these symptoms, see your doctor or dermatologist. He may simply take a look or do a skin biopsy to rule out similar conditions likeseborrheic dermatitis.
Causes of Psoriasis
Psoriasis is not contagious and can’t be spread through contact or exchange of bodily fluids.
While the exact cause of psoriasis is unknown, it's an autoimmune condition in which a faulty immune system changes the life cycle of skin cells in the body.
This change causes the cells to build up rapidly on the surface of the skin in just a few days (for those without psoriasis, this process usually takes about a month).
These extra skin cells form thick, itchy, dry, red patches on the skin's surface.
Is Psoriasis Contagious?
While more research is needed to fully understand psoriasis, we do know that the condition is not contagious.
In other words, you can't spread the disease through touch, salvia, or during any kind of sexual contact.
Risk Factors for Psoriasis
While anyone can develop psoriasis, the following factors can increase your risk:
Family history: Having one parent with psoriasis increases your risk, and having two parents with the condition puts you at greater risk.
Infections: People with HIV are more likely to develop psoriasis. Additionally, kids and young adults with recurring infections, such as strep throat, may be at increased risk.
Stress: Since stress can impact your immune system, high stress levels may increase your risk of psoriasis.
Smoking: Smoking tobacco increases your risk and the severity of psoriasis, and may initiate the development of the disease.
