Psoriasis is a chronic medical condition which affects the life cycle of skin cells. This skin infection causes the immune system to send white blood cells to infected portions of skin. These cells begin to trigger the initial steps of inflammation by causing the skins cells to grow faster than normal. This surplus amount of skin cells then begins to pile up on top of each other.

It is not contagious and therefore is not spreadable. In some instances, it is passed from generation to generation genetically. Environmental factors are also believed to be the cause of some instances of flare ups in people with Psoriasis.

There are some things that people can do to help with Psoriasis therapy and even to find a workable cure for Psoriasis in some cases. However, it is imperative to know which type of Psoriasis is being treated. There are 5 different types of Psoriasis, as described below. Each appears differently on the body which makes each able to be diagnosed relatively easily.

• Plaque Psoriasis is the most common type of Psoriasis. The skin is red and tends to have "silver" colored scales which can stick around for years at a time

• Guttate Psoriasis is signified by small red spots on the skin. This type usually tends to last up to a couple of weeks and may even go away without treatment

• Pustular Psoriasis is infrequently seen and consists of raised bumps on the skin which are filled with pus

• Inverse Psoriasis is usually denoted by smooth red patches found in skin folds on the body. They tend to be triggered by an abundant growth of yeast

• Erythrodermic Psoriasis is the least common occurrence of Psoriasis. It is usually seen as large portion of the body covered in a red rash that peels

Although Psoriasis tends to be a chronic, life-long disease, there are several things that can be done to help prevent outbreaks and flare ups. It is believed, by some, that sun exposure offers some benefits to Psoriasis sufferers.

Oils and moisturizers are also helpful in dealing with Psoriasis. If the affected area can be kept moist and soft, it can help alleviate the discomfort of the disease.

Over the counter Cortizone creams can also help to alleviate the itching associated with milder outbreaks.