psoriasis causes

Six Psoriasis Causes that Might Surprise You
Why the Heck Am I Covered in Shiny Pink Scales?

Let’s be real:  If you’ve come to this page, it’s because you or maybe someone you care about has Psoriasis.   (Unless, of course, you’ve got ample free time and are just looking for things to worry about on the internet.  Not that I would know about that sort of thing.  Ahem.)

If you (or your partner, or child, or parent, or Great Aunt Ethel, or friend, or that slammin’ hottie you’ve been scoping at Starbucks) has Psoriasis, you may be wondering what causes Psoriasis in the first place.

I know that when I first started getting red and scaly patches on my legs and arms, I wondered about the causes of Psoriasis, too.

While scratching myself into a frenzy, I wondered:

Is Psoriasis genetic?       

Is Psoriasis a DISEASE?   (And do I get to call in sick to work?)

Did I piss off a Voodoo Witch Doctor?

Essentially, what are the primary Psoriasis causes.  And why me?

So, I did what you’re doing:  I consulted Dr. Google. 

And here’s what I learned:

No one really knows exactly what causes psoriasis. 

Fantastic.  Meanwhile, I’m uncomfortable on good days, miserable on bad days and looking for answers. 

Here’s what we already know:  Psoriasis is an autoimmune issue or “disorder” (let’s ditch the word “disease” because it’s a misnomer, and just sounds creepy) that affects between 1%-3% of the world’s population – including singing sensation Leanne Rimes!  (So see?  We’re not alone!)

Anyway,  “Normal” skin cells are shed and replaced over the course of a month.  But when you have Psoriasis,  your skin cells are reproducing at speed-freak rates (like every few days instead of every month), and the dead skin cells are stuck on the skin getting all scaly and red and whatnot. 

This is essentially an autoimmune disorder where your skin cells are attacking … you. 

Charming.

But again, what causes Psoriasis in the first place?  Why are my skin cells over-achievers on amphetamines, while my best friend gets to strut around in shorts during the summer?  Hardly seems fair. 

So, I did a little more research, and after reading and reading (boring) website after (boring) website, and consulting pharmacists and doctors, and the checkout clerk at Trader Joes, I’ve learned the following:  continue click here