Psoriasis is a common, chronic skin condition that has no cure. It is an auto-immune disorder, that is, it flares when the immune system becomes overactive and causes the skin cells to multiply quickly. While the exact cause of this condition is unknown to researchers today, most agree that it is a combination of genetic, lifestyle, and environmental factors that lead to its onset. Psoriasis can affect everyone and has certain telltale signs and symptoms.

Plaques
Plaques are patches of thick, inflamed skin that can grow and merge, covering larger areas of the body. On lighter skin, these appear red in color with silver scales; on medium skin, they look coral or salmon-colored with silvery-white scales, and on darker skin, they appear purplish or dark brown, with gray scales. These can be quite itchy to deal with and may lead to cracking and bleeding of the skin.
These spots commonly appear on the elbows and knees, fingernails and toenails, face, genitals, lower back, and hands and feet.

Brittle nails
Lots of people with psoriasis also report issues with their fingernails and toenails. These may include discoloration of the nails, development of small pits, or crumbling of the nail. In some cases, they may also completely detach from the nail bed.

Scalp issues
Scales or plaques may also appear on the scalp, leading to itching and burning.

Poor sleep quality
As a result of the itching, pain, and discomfort caused by a psoriasis flare, one’s sleep quality may be impacted. This may further increase stress, a common cause behind the recurrence of flares.

Psoriatic arthritis
About 10-30% of people with psoriasis also develop pain and swelling in their joints. This condition is known as psoriatic arthritis.

Pus-filled bumps
Those with pustular psoriasis develop red swollen skin and pus-filled blisters. As these dry up, one may notice the appearance of brown dots and scaly patches.

Burnt skin
This is perhaps one of the most dangerous signs of psoriasis, which is commonly noticed with erythrodermic psoriasis. Here, the skin and most of the body begin to appear burnt, along with noticeable sickness, chills, and muscle weakness. Immediate medical attention is advisable in such cases.
It is important to note that the symptoms one experiences depend on the type of psoriasis they have, the affected areas of the body, and the intensity of the condition.