Psoriasis Signs and Symptoms
Signs and Symptoms
Dry, red patches of skin are the most well-known symptoms of psoriasis. The skin replaces itself more quickly than normal, causing excess skin cells to pile up in thick layers. Roughly half of people with psoriasis also have irregular fingernail growth that results in pitting, crumbling, or discoloration of the nail. A smaller proportion of people also experience arthritis symptoms.
Psoriasis may begin with small red bumps that eventually grow into large patches of dry skin that flake off in scales. Patches of affected skin often are symmetrical, meaning that they are present in the same place on both sides of the body. Some areas of the body are more likely to be affected, including the scalp, face, arms, hands, legs, groin, feet, and places where the skin folds.