Psoriasis is a chronic skin condition characterized by the appearance of red, scaly patches on the skin. Many people do not recognize this condition until it has fully developed because of which early signs are always missed. The early detection of psoriasis can help a person manage flare-ups and reduce discomfort. This blog will talk about the early signs of psoriasis that are usually overlooked and why it is important to identify them. Also, we will detail which clinic offers the best psoriasis treatment in Gurgaon. So, let’s get started.
Here are the early signs of psoriasis:
- Dry and flaky skin that does not go away
Most people develop dry skin in winters or after a shower. However, dryness due to psoriasis is something different. It makes the skin highly dry, rough, and flaky. In fact, even with moisturizers, there is not much improvement in the dryness. This is so because psoriasis changes the growth of skin cells. Skin cells start multiplying too fast. This lays down thick layers, which peel off. If you notice dryness on the elbows, knees, scalp, or lower back stays for weeks, it may be an early sign of psoriasis.
- Small red bumps that spread slowly
Initially, small red patches may be present before the formation of larger and thicker scales. These bumps can form on a person’s body such as back, arms and legs or even their scalp. Many people typically will associate the small red spots as being an allergy or simple rash. But unlike normal rashes, with psoriasis, the bumps get thicker over time and slowly spread. In some cases, they appear in groups, forming small patches that keep growing. Take note of any bumps that do not disappear in a few days.
- Itching and burning sensation
Itching is one of the first signs of psoriasis. The skin often becomes dry, tight, or irritated, and people have a strong urge to scratch. Sometimes there is also a burning or stinging sensation. This can even occur before any visible patches appear. The itching associated with psoriasis is different from normal itching. It usually is more severe. Scratching tends to make the area become even red and more inflamed. If you are searching for a skin doctor in Gurgaon for psoriasis treatment, get in touch with Dr. Neha Sharma at Estique Clinic.
- White or silvery scales on the skin
Silvery-white scaling is one of the common signs of psoriasis, but most of the time, they often begin small. Many people mistake these scales for dandruff or flaky dry skin. These scales thicken after some time and become more visible. Small white scaly patches that appear on your knees, elbows, back and scalp, and which do not respond well to moisturizers, shampoos or any other product, may indicate that psoriasis may be developing.
- Cracking and bleeding skin
Early stages of psoriasis can make the skin so dry and tight that it starts to crack. The cracks might be small at first but can become very painful later on. Sometimes they can even bleed. This mostly happens in places on the body that really stretch or move, such as the palms, feet, or around the joints. If your skin cracks easily, even after applying lotions, then it could be more than just simple dryness.
- Thick and persistent dandruff
Scalp psoriasis generally begins with thick dandruff-like flakes. Unlike normal dandruff, however, the flakes of psoriasis are heavier, whiter, and look like reddish-colored patches on your scalp. The scalp may be tender, itchy, or even sore. If your dandruff does not go away even with anti-dandruff shampoos, or if you notice red patches beneath the flakes, early scalp psoriasis may be present.
- Changes in nail
Psoriasis can affect your nails before it begins to affect the skin. Nail symptoms are often overlooked, with many persons mistaking them for a fungal infection or injury from work and daily activities. Early nail signs and symptoms include yellow or white discoloration, tiny holes in the nails, thick nails that look uneven etc. If you notice changes in more than one nail, it could be signs of psoriasis.
- Red patches in skin folds
Some people develop a type of psoriasis known as inverse psoriasis, which shows up in skin folds in areas such as armpits, groin, between the buttocks etc. These are smooth, shiny, and red patches without the usual thick scales. Many people mistake it for a fungal infection. But if it does not disappear even after being treated as such, it could be psoriasis.
- Joint stiffness or pain
Many people are not aware that psoriasis can affect the joints. This is called psoriatic arthritis. Early signs may be morning stiffness, swollen fingers or toes, pain in the joints or fatigue. If you have unexplained joint pain along with skin changes, consult a doctor.
- Sudden flare-ups after stress
Psoriasis often begins after a trigger. You may notice the symptoms of psoriasis starting right after a stressful period, skin injury, throat infection, hormonal changes, medications. If you developed persistent rashes or patches right after stress, infection, or injury, then it could be an early sign of psoriasis.
Why Early Detection Matters?
Early recognition of psoriasis is important because:
- You can begin treatment sooner
- Flare-ups become easier to manage.
- You can prevent patches from spreading
- It reduces discomfort and pain. You can avoid long-term problems like psoriatic arthritis.
Many treatments work best if the condition is caught early. If you are dealing with psoriasis and looking for an effective treatment, you can consult Dr. Neha Sharma, a renowned skin doctor in Gurgaon at Estique Clinic. Depending on how severe psoriasis is, she will recommend either oral medications or phototherapy. For more details on treatment options, visit the Estique Clinic now.
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