Kim Kardashian has openly shared her experience with psoriasis, an autoimmune condition that primarily affects the skin.
Kim Kardashian has been candid about her struggles with psoriasis, often sharing insights into her journey with the condition. She has, for example, shared videos detailing "painful" flare-ups she experiences.
Understanding Psoriasis
Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune disease that speeds up the growth cycle of skin cells. This rapid buildup of cells on the surface of the skin results in thick, scaly patches that can be itchy, dry, and sometimes painful. It's not contagious and can affect individuals differently.
Here's a quick overview of key aspects of psoriasis:
| Aspect | Description |
|---|---|
| Nature | Chronic autoimmune condition, meaning the body's immune system mistakenly attacks healthy skin cells. |
| Skin Impact | Causes skin cells to multiply up to 10 times faster than normal, leading to raised, red patches covered with silvery scales, known as plaques. |
| Common Areas | Often appears on the elbows, knees, scalp, and lower back, but can occur anywhere on the body, including nails and joints. |
| Symptoms | Can include itching, burning, soreness, dry and cracked skin that may bleed, and thickened, pitted, or ridged nails. |
| Course of Condition | Psoriasis typically goes through cycles, flaring for a few weeks or months, then subsiding or going into remission. Triggers like stress, infections, or certain medications can cause flares. |
While there is no cure for psoriasis, various treatments can help manage symptoms and improve the quality of life for those affected. These can range from topical creams and light therapy to oral medications and injectable biological drugs.
For more information on psoriasis, you can visit reputable sources such as the American Academy of Dermatology Association.
