Frequently asked questions about psoriasis

No. Psoriasis is not contagious and cannot pass from one person to another. Several skin conditions can look similar, so an uncertain diagnosis should still be assessed rather than decided from appearance alone.

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Psoriasis is a chronic condition with periods of flaring and improvement, and there is currently no cure. Several treatments can help control lesions, symptoms, and daily-life impact. Results vary between people.

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Stress may trigger a flare in some people, but it is not the whole cause and is not the patient's fault. Stress support can complement care but does not replace prescribed treatment.

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There is no single forbidden-food list for everyone. Eat a varied, balanced diet, and do not remove several food groups or use supplements in place of treatment. Discuss a suspected food pattern with a clinician or dietitian.

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The appearances overlap. Clinicians use location, lesion borders, scalp and nail findings, history, and sometimes skin scraping or sampling. A comparison image alone is not enough for prolonged treatment decisions.

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Psoriasis does not spread like an infection, but skin injury from scratching can trigger a new lesion at the injured area in some people. Manage itch and moisturise according to the care plan instead of picking scale.

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No. Medical phototherapy controls the type and dose of ultraviolet light and includes monitoring. Sunlight and tanning beds do not provide controlled dosing and can burn or damage the skin. Ask a clinician before using light as part of care.

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Do not stop or change prescribed treatment on your own. Ask about maintenance, what to do during a flare, and follow-up. Some medicines need a planned adjustment, and abrupt withdrawal may worsen symptoms.

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It can. Psoriatic arthritis may cause recurring joint pain, swelling, or stiffness, a whole swollen digit, or heel pain. Other joint conditions can look similar, so recurring symptoms should be assessed.

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Yes. Scalp psoriasis can cause lesions and scale. Nails may pit, thicken, change colour, or lift, but fungal and other diseases can look similar, and these locations often require a different treatment approach.

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No. Biologics are one systemic option for selected people. Choice depends on severity, location, life impact, other conditions, infection, other medicines, pregnancy plans, and follow-up, and requires an experienced clinician.

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Rapid widespread inflammation, very painful skin, many pustules, fever, chills, a fast heartbeat, or feeling very unwell needs immediate assessment because severe psoriasis or infection may be present.

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