Psoriasis is one of the most serious skin diseases. The pathology is incurable autoimmune in nature and occurs in patients of all ages. A hallmark of the disease is its wavy nature. Relapses are followed by periods of calm and vice versa. The duration of remission always depends on the type, form of the disease, as well as on the individual characteristics of the patient.
The main symptoms of psoriasis are unpleasant pink or red spots that appear on various parts of the human body. In medical practice, these rashes are usually referred to as plaques or papules. In most cases, the plaques are covered with scales characteristic of the pathology and protrude several millimeters from the surface of healthy skin. In addition, signs of psoriasis include signs such as severe itching in the area of lesions and inflammation.
Psoriasis, the causes of which have not yet been clarified, is diagnosed in one in ten people who see a doctor with skin problems. The pathology is prevalent mainly in adults, but it is often found in children. Residents of countries with cold and humid climates are at risk. The percentage of disease in people living in cold countries is higher than in residents living in hot climates.
What is psoriasis: a theory of the origin of the disease
So far it has not been possible to find out the exact causes of the disease, how psoriasis begins is also unclear. Even the joint efforts of scientists around the world do not answer the question of why psoriasis appears? According to Wikipedia, in modern medical practice there are several theories about the occurrence of this disease. However, none of them are officially saved. Theories for the development of psoriasis are as follows:
- Immunity.
- Hereditary.
- The theory of hormonal disruption.
- Theory against a background of stress.
- Disorders of metabolic processes.
- Viral origin.
Based on clinical studies and laboratory data, scientists were able to identify several points of view suggesting possible causes for the development of the pathology.
Immune theory
Many scientists determine the causes of psoriasis in children and adults by the characteristics of the immune system. This theory is by far the most widespread. From the point of view of its founders, the appearance of plaques on the body of a different nature occurs due to the activity of immune cells, which perceive certain areas of the dermis as an aggressor. This leads to severe inflammation and redness of the skin.
The causes of psoriasis on the body from the point of view of immune theory may be as follows:
- rubbing the skin with clothes and shoes;
- burnt;
- frostbite;
- microcracks;
- stripes.
Based on the results of the tests, it was possible to reveal the presence of a large number of immune cells in the places where psoriatic spots appear. This is partial confirmation of the immune theory.
Genetic theory
Its other name is the theory of heredity. Many scientists believe that the disease is inherited. This is evidenced by numerous surveys, the results of which have shown that in the case of pathology in the mother, the risk of developing a disease in the child is 20-25%. If both parents have psoriasis, the percentage rises to 75.
Genetic predisposition is considered to be one of the main factors in the development of the disease. With a combination of several provoking factors, the risk of pathology increases significantly.
Important! If the parents of a child have psoriasis, it cannot be a one hundred percent guarantee that the child will certainly develop the same disease. Heredity only increases the risk of disease.
Endocrine theory
The cause of psoriasis on the hands, back, head and other parts of the body is also partially explained by endocrine theory. Here, scientists suggest that pathological changes in the dermis occur as a result of hormonal imbalance in the body. The dysfunction of the normal functioning of the endocrine system causes a decrease in the healthy vital activity of the cells of the dermis.
Hormonal imbalances can occur for the following reasons:
- period of pregnancy;
- menstruation;
- take hormonal drugs; puberty
- .
Important! According to the results of medical research, a violation of the hormonal level in the patient's blood is not observed in all cases. Given these facts, the endocrine system cannot be considered fundamental.
Neurogenic theory
The onset of psoriasis also supports the neurogenic theory. This point of view explains the appearance of the disease following stress and strong emotional experiences. Representatives of this theory believe that the cause of psoriasis may lie in malfunctions of the central nervous system.
As a result of experiments, the patient presents with a phenomenon such as neurosis of the vascular walls. This causes the vascular musculature to narrow and blood flow to be impaired. The consequence is the appearance on the body of rashes in the form of scaly patches.
According to surveys of more than half of patients with psoriasis, the onset of the disease was preceded by strong experiences and stress.
Theory of exchanges
The reasons for the appearance of psoriasis in women and men can also lie in the violation of metabolic processes in the body. This is the opinion of representatives of the theory of metabolic disorders.
According to medical research, it has been possible to find a clear link between psoriasis and metabolic disorders in the body. Violation of lipids and other processes leads to a change in blood composition, weakened immunity and other negative consequences.
The following factors can cause metabolic disturbances:
- presence of diabetes mellitus;
- diseases of the kidneys, liver;
- unbalanced diet;
- sedentary lifestyle.
Viral theory
Some scientists explain the causes of psoriasis by the transfer of a viral infection or the presence of chronic inflammatory foci in the body. This theory is to some extent related to genetic theory. Representatives of this point of view believe that an infection can become an impetus for the development of pathology.
What factors can trigger psoriasis?
In addition to the theories about the origin of the disease, there are several provoking factors. These include:
- Poor diet, consumption of food allergens, insufficient amount of vitamins and minerals.
- Bad habits such as alcohol and smoking, as well as drug use.
- Medication taking incorrectly or canceling prematurely.
- Various injuries to the dermis.
- Hormonal imbalance in the body.
Heredity and a combination of several provoking factors can lead to a disease such as psoriasis. It is very important to timely diagnose the pathology and start adequate treatment. This will help to avoid many negative consequences in the future.
Why psoriasis is dangerous
At first, the disease may not cause much discomfort, but if left untreated, the disease will become severe with constant relapses. Therefore, it is important to start treatment in a timely manner and prevent the development of psoriasis. As a preventive measure, you can use traditional medicine and its means, but only with the consent of a doctor.
Now that you know what causes psoriasis, you need to start treating it. At the first symptoms, consult your doctor, self-medication can seriously harm your health.