Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune condition that affects the skin, causing red, scaly patches to form. Some common symptoms of psoriasis include:
- Red patches of skin covered with silvery scales: These patches may be itchy or painful and can appear on any part of the body, but are most commonly found on the scalp, elbows, knees, and lower back.
- Thickened, pitted or ridged nails: Psoriasis can affect the nails, causing them to become discolored, thickened, and distorted. The nails may also develop small pits or ridges, and they may separate from the nail bed.
- Joint pain and stiffness: Psoriatic arthritis is a type of psoriasis that affects the joints, causing pain, stiffness, and swelling. This can occur in any joint in the body, but is most common in the fingers, toes, and lower back.
