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Warning-sign checks

Psoriasis: when to get help

Go through these in order and stop at the first one that applies. If you are reading this for someone else, answer for them.

  1. 1

    Is any of this happening now?

    Call 911

    Call emergency services if you have widespread red or discoloured skin with severe illness, breathing difficulty, fainting, confusion, or signs of a severe allergic reaction.

    These are not features of an ordinary plaque psoriasis flare.

    Other emergency signs, for anyone
    • Someone who is struggling to breathe, gasping, choking, or cannot get words out
    • Someone who has chest pain, tightness or pressure lasting more than a few minutes
    • Someone who has sudden weakness or drooping on one side of the face or body, slurred speech, or sudden confusion
    • Someone who is unconscious, or cannot be woken
    • Someone who is bleeding heavily and it will not stop with firm pressure
    • Someone who has had a seizure that will not stop, or does not wake up afterwards
    • Someone who has lips or skin that look pale, blue, grey or blotchy
    • Someone who you believe has taken an overdose or swallowed something poisonous
  2. 2

    Is any of this happening?

    Be seen today

    Request a prompt assessment for new joint pain, swelling, morning stiffness, heel pain, or a whole swollen finger or toe.

    These symptoms do not always mean psoriatic arthritis, but they should not be ignored.

    Seek urgent same-day medical help if psoriasis rapidly spreads, becomes intensely painful, or develops widespread pustules.

    Fever, chills, weakness, dehydration, or feeling seriously unwell alongside a major skin flare also need urgent assessment.

  3. 3

    Does any of this apply?

    Book an appointment

    Arrange a routine appointment if you have persistent scaly skin patches, unexplained nail changes, or symptoms that are not improving with your current plan.

    A review is also appropriate when treatment is difficult to use, causes side effects, or no longer controls your psoriasis.

Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Psoriasis. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.