Understanding Psoriasis Symptoms

Individuals with psoriasis experience skin conditions such as itching, cracking, stinging, burning, or bleeding (ICN Pharmaceuticals, Inc.). These symptoms are usually worse in the winter months due to the lack of sunlight and low indoor humidity (Hall 132). The skin is most likely to crack at the joints where the body bends or in areas where the individual fails to refrain from scratching. Scratching can also lead to bleeding and infection which is why it should be avoided at all costs. This skin condition has also been known to affect fingernails and toenails by causing pits or dents in them. There is also the possibility that the soft tissue inside the mouth and genitalia can be affected. In some cases, individuals experience joint inflammation, which can lead to the development of arthritis symptoms. This condition is known as psoriatic arthritis.