Until now, the exact cause of psoriasis is unknown but there are theories based on what we know about how psoriasis develops. Which is helpful to get the proper treatment of psoriasis.
But first, let me make something clear right off the bat. People with psoriasis are subject to a lot of social stigma because of the way they look. They’re being treated like lepers because a lot of people think that psoriasis is contagious. I’m going to make it clear right now that psoriasis is not contagious. It never has and never will be. You will not get psoriasis by talking, touching, or sharing a glass with a person who has psoriasis.
Now that we have that matter cleared, I can now tell you what most scientists and doctors think may be the causes of psoriasis.
- Immune System Disorder. Doctors believe that an immune system disorder involving the T cell is what causes psoriasis. T cells are a type of immune cells that can trigger skin inflammation and overproduction of skin cells. Immune system disorders can be genetic or it can be caused by certain drugs or chemicals.
- Genetics. Doctors have observed that psoriasis seems to run in families. So it’s reasonable to assume that genetics maybe a reason why people get psoriasis. Scientists believe that mutations in the genes that control the immune response or inflammatory response could be the cause of psoriasis.
The two causes above are the most likely culprits because of the way psoriasis can be triggered by certain factors. The most common triggers of psoriasis patients include:
- Injuries to the skin (scratches, bruises, infections)
- Streptococcal infections, e.g. Strep throat
- Too much sunlight
- Stress
- Smoking
- Consumption of alcohol
- Hormonal changes like puberty, pregnancy, or menopause
- HIV infection
- Drugs like lithium, antimalarials, beta-blockers, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.
The severity and the type of psoriasis a person has sometimes depend on the trigger that he or she is exposed to.