Psoriasis in Australia is more common than many people realise, with estimates suggesting it affects around one in fifty Australians at some point in their lives. It’s a chronic autoimmune skin condition, meaning the immune system mistakenly speeds up skin cell growth, leading to raised, scaly patches that can feel itchy or sore.
Psoriasis shares some visible features with eczema and the two are sometimes confused, but they involve different underlying processes. This article looks at what psoriasis is, what it looks and feels like, and how it’s generally approached within the Australian healthcare system.
If you’re ever dealing with a serious flare, a suspected infection, or any medical emergency, call 000 or go to your nearest emergency department.
What Is Psoriasis, Exactly?
Psoriasis happens when signals from the immune system speed up the normal life cycle of skin cells. Instead of taking around a month to form and shed, cells can turn over in just a few days, building up as thick, scaly patches.
It’s classed as an autoimmune skin condition, meaning the immune system is mistakenly targeting healthy skin tissue. Psoriasis is not contagious, so it cannot be passed from person to person through touch or everyday contact.
For a clear overview of how psoriasis develops, Healthdirect has easy to follow information for the general public.
What Does Psoriasis Look and Feel Like?
The most recognisable sign is patches of thickened, discoloured skin, often covered in silvery white scales. On darker skin tones, these patches may appear more purple, brown, or grey rather than the classic red seen on lighter skin.
Common areas include the elbows, knees, scalp, and lower back, though psoriasis can appear almost anywhere, including the nails and joints. Many people also notice itching, tightness, or stinging, and skin can crack or bleed when a patch is more severe.
Common Types and Triggers of Psoriasis in Australia
Psoriasis can look and behave quite differently from person to person, and several distinct types are recognised. These include:
- Plaque psoriasis, the most common form, causing raised, scaly patches
- Guttate psoriasis, small, drop shaped spots, sometimes following a throat infection
- Inverse psoriasis, smooth, red patches that appear in skin folds
- Scalp psoriasis, affecting the scalp, hairline, and sometimes the ears
- Psoriatic arthritis, joint pain and swelling that can occur alongside skin symptoms
Flare ups are often linked to certain triggers, though these vary between individuals. Stress, skin injury, some infections, cold weather, smoking, and certain medications are commonly reported as factors that can worsen symptoms.
Psoriasis Australia, a national charity supporting people with the condition, has more detail on the different types. See Psoriasis Australia for their resources.
When to See a GP About Psoriasis in Australia
If you notice persistent scaly patches, unexplained skin changes, or joint pain alongside skin symptoms, it’s worth booking a GP visit. A GP can examine your skin, ask about your history, and rule out other conditions before discussing management.
For more complex or widespread psoriasis, your GP may suggest a specialist referral to a dermatologist. Seeing a dermatologist with a valid referral can also make you eligible for a Medicare rebate, which helps offset part of the consultation cost.
The RACGP offers guidance for patients on when general practice care is appropriate and when a referral to a specialist may be the next step for ongoing skin conditions.
Treatment Options for Psoriasis in Australia
Topical Treatments
For mild to moderate psoriasis, topical treatments applied directly to the skin are usually the first approach. These are generally prescribed by a GP or dermatologist and available through Australian pharmacies, with some options listed on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) to help make treatment more affordable.
Phototherapy and Other Approaches
For more widespread or persistent psoriasis, phototherapy, a treatment that uses controlled ultraviolet light under medical supervision, is sometimes recommended. This is usually accessed through a dermatologist or a specialist clinic rather than a standard GP visit.
In some cases, doctors may discuss other treatment options depending on how severe the symptoms are. These decisions are always individual, so it’s best to talk them through with your treating doctor.
Lifestyle and Preventive Care
Alongside any medical treatment, many people find that lifestyle factors help them manage flare ups day to day. This can include managing stress, moisturising regularly, avoiding known personal triggers, and general preventive health habits such as not smoking.
Ongoing care often benefits from a steady relationship with your GP, including regular check ins on how a treatment plan is working. Better Health Channel has further practical information on living with psoriasis day to day.
Understanding Medicare and PBS Costs for Psoriasis Care
Costs vary depending on whether you see a bulk billing GP, whether a referral is needed, and which treatments are prescribed. Rather than fixed figures, it’s best to check current Medicare rebate and PBS costs directly through Services Australia, since these are reviewed and updated regularly.
Many GPs also offer telehealth appointments, a convenient way to discuss ongoing management, review symptoms, or request repeat prescriptions without an in person visit.
Conclusion
Psoriasis in Australia is a manageable, if sometimes frustrating, chronic skin condition, and understanding what’s happening with your skin is a helpful first step. From topical treatments to phototherapy and lifestyle adjustments, there are a range of treatment options, and most people find an approach that works with guidance from their GP or dermatologist.
If you’re noticing symptoms that sound like psoriasis, it’s worth getting them checked rather than waiting until things feel worse. Book a visit with your GP, ask about a specialist referral if it seems appropriate, or use medicine.com.au to find a GP or dermatologist in your city who can help you take the next step.
FAQs
1. What causes psoriasis?
Psoriasis is caused by an overactive immune response that speeds up skin cell turnover, though what exactly triggers this reaction isn’t fully understood. Genetics appear to play a role, since it often runs in families, and factors like stress or infection can worsen flare ups.
2. Is psoriasis the same as eczema?
No, although they can look similar and are sometimes confused. Psoriasis is an autoimmune condition linked to rapid skin cell growth, while eczema usually relates to skin barrier and allergy type issues. A GP or dermatologist can help work out which one you’re dealing with.
3. Can psoriasis be cured?
There’s currently no cure for psoriasis, but it can usually be managed well with the right treatment and lifestyle adjustments. Many people experience flare ups followed by times when symptoms settle down or become milder.
4. Do I need a referral to see a dermatologist for psoriasis?
In Australia, you generally need a referral from your GP to see a dermatologist and to be eligible for a Medicare rebate on that visit. Your GP will usually assess your symptoms first and decide with you whether specialist care makes sense.
5. Is psoriasis contagious?
No, psoriasis cannot be spread through touch, sharing items, or close contact with someone who has it. It’s an internal immune process rather than an infection, so there’s no risk of catching it from another person.