Ambulance 912HAP 9252
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Psoriasis

Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory disease with sharply defined red or dark patches and scales. It is not contagious and can also affect the nails and joints; treatment depends on the location, extent and impact on life.

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Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory disease with sharply defined red or dark patches and scales. It is not contagious and can also affect the nails and joints; treatment depends on the location, extent and impact on life.

  • Sharply defined thickened patches with white or silvery scales, or dark discolouration on dark skin.
  • Itching, burning, pain, cracks or bleeding in dry, thick skin.
  • Apply a fragrance-free rich cream or ointment daily, especially after a short lukewarm shower.
  • Remove scales gently and avoid vigorous scratching, because skin damage can trigger new patches.
  • Make an appointment for extensive patches, severe itching or pain, disturbed sleep or insufficient improvement with self-care.
  • For urgent GP care outside normal opening hours, call HAP 9252. Call Ambulance 912 only for an immediately life-threatening situation.

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Fungal skin infectionA fungal skin infection is a superficial infection affecting the skin, hair or sometimes skin folds. Symptoms vary by location: round scaly patches on the body, cracks between the toes, an itchy groin or other patches with red, scaly edges. Treatment depends on the site and severity. Do not use only a corticosteroid cream on a suspected fungal patch without advice, because this can hide and worsen the infection.
P
Pityriasis versicolorPityriasis versicolor is a superficial overgrowth of the normal skin yeast Malassezia, causing finely scaly pale, dark or pink patches mainly on the chest, back, neck and upper arms. It is not contagious. Antifungal treatment stops the active yeast, but the colour difference may remain visible for weeks to months.
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Psoriatic arthritisPsoriatic arthritis is long-term joint inflammation that can occur with psoriasis. Joint symptoms sometimes start before clear skin patches appear.