World Psoriasis Awareness Month (August)- Symptom, Cause, Treatment

August is celebrated as World Psoriasis Awareness month every year, and this day focuses on educating and providing factual information to patients and their close ones. This campaign aims to share relevant facts on symptoms, causes and treatment methods of skin psoriasis.  

The World Psoriasis Awareness campaign was started in 1997. Initially, the day was celebrated by sharing reports related to the disease through newspapers, radio, posters and banners. However, in the era of social media, the details regarding skin psoriasis can easily be shared with individuals. There are many myths regarding this skin disease that need to be busted in order to provide better treatment options to the patients. 

Initial symptoms of psoriasis disease are – itching, burning sensation and red-coloured patchy flakes all over the affected area. These patches may change colour depending on the severity of the infection, from pink to red and purple. It is important to notice the changes and see a dermatologist as soon as possible. In many cases, patients reported that the skin infection was triggered in areas such as elbows, knees, scalp, neck etc. 

Coming to the causes of psoriasis, there is no specific reason behind the trigger. However, having an immunity-based issue can infect the skin and cause this skin disease. Most patients believe it is contagious, though this is factually incorrect. Also, when looking for effective treatment, you need to get see a dermatologist at the right time.