In brief
A long-term condition that may cause red, itchy, scaly patches on the skin. It happens when the immune system makes skin cells grow too fast, and it is not contagious.
- Some people with psoriasis develop psoriatic arthritis, which affects the joints and may damage them.
- Psoriasis can affect wellbeing, including low mood and depression, and is linked with a higher chance of inflammatory bowel disease, diabetes, heart disease and liver disease, according to healthdirect.
- See your doctor if red, scaly or raised patches on your skin do not go away, or if you have painful, swollen or stiff joints.
How it works
Psoriasis is an immune system condition that can affect the skin, the nails and the joints. It is not clear exactly what causes it, but genes may play a part, so if someone in your family has psoriasis, you may be more likely to get it too.
Infections, stress, cold weather, skin injuries, smoking and some medicines can trigger psoriasis or make it worse. The medicines named include lithium, beta blockers, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medicines and antimalarial medicines. Treatments include creams and ointments, such as steroid or vitamin D creams, light therapy with special ultraviolet light, and medicines that help control the immune system.
Looking after it
If you feel unwell, or you suddenly develop a red rash over your whole body, see a doctor straight away.
Connections
9 connections on the map. Select a topic to read its page.
Psoriasis is linked with
Psoriasis is an immune system condition. It happens when the immune system makes skin cells grow too fast.
Psoriasis is an inflammatory condition of the skin, the nails and the joints.
Source: Better Health Channel (Victorian Government), Psoriasis
- Depression Supported
Psoriasis can affect your wellbeing, and some people develop low mood or emotional stress, including depression.
- Heart and blood vessels Supported
People with psoriasis may have a higher chance of other health problems, such as heart disease.
- Liver Supported
People with psoriasis may have a higher chance of other health problems, such as liver disease.
Psoriasis can be worsened by
- Chronic stress (allostatic load) Supported
Stress is one of the things that can trigger psoriasis or make it worse.
- Smoking Supported
Smoking can trigger psoriasis or make it worse.
Sources: healthdirect Australia, Psoriasis; Better Health Channel (Victorian Government), Psoriasis
Psoriasis affects
Psoriasis may cause red, itchy, scaly patches on the skin.
Psoriasis can cause
Some people with psoriasis develop psoriatic arthritis, which affects the joints and may damage them.
Sources: healthdirect Australia, Psoriasis; Better Health Channel (Victorian Government), Psoriasis
Sources
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Summarised from healthdirect and the Better Health Channel. Sources read on 20 October 2026. General education only, not medical advice. Spotted a mistake? Please tell us through the HuBu-Intel contact page.