Psoriasis is a chronic skin disease that causes red, scaly patches to form on your chest, scalp, knees, or elbows. These patches trigger itching and discomfort, which can prevent you from wearing certain outfits or participating in your favorite activities. Though there’s no cure for psoriasis, with professional intervention it’s possible to ease symptoms and prevent them from getting worse.
Psoriasis affects everyone differently. Symptoms to look out for include:
- Itching or burning skin
- Swollen and stiff joints
- Small patches of scaly skin
- Thick, silvery scales
- Areas of red, irritated skin
- Skin that bleeds and itches
The severity of psoriasis varies. Some people only experience a few small patches here and there, while others experience outbreaks that affect large areas of the skin. Psoriasis symptoms usually flare-up during cycles. These cycles occur every few weeks or months and then subside before recurring later on.
Psoriasis occurs due to a problem with your immune system that causes your skin to regenerate at a faster pace than normal. This rapid turnover of skin cells results in scales and visible patches of red, irritated skin. Researchers aren’t entirely sure what causes these immune system changes, but it’s thought that both genetics and environmental factors play a role.
Annexus Dermatology & Aesthetics diagnoses psoriasis by reviewing your medical history, asking about your symptoms and lifestyle, and physically examining your skin, scalp, and nails. Your provider might also take a skin biopsy to determine the type of psoriasis you have or to rule out other underlying conditions. Treatment for psoriasis depends on the type, the severity of your symptoms, and their effect on your quality of life. The goal of treatment is to stop your skin cells from growing so rapidly and to address areas of scaly skin.
Usually, Annexus Dermatology & Aesthetics recommends topical therapy using corticosteroids, vitamin D analogs, retinoids, or salicylic acid. If you have moderate or severe psoriasis, you might benefit from low-level light therapy. During low-level light therapy, you expose your skin to controlled amounts of artificial or natural light.
If topical therapy or low-level light therapy doesn’t ease your symptoms, you might benefit from oral medications or injections. Your provider might recommend treatment with steroids, retinoids, methotrexate, or biologics. Annexus Dermatology & Aesthetics recommends starting with the mildest treatment first and making adjustments over time as necessary.
Don’t let psoriasis prevent you from living your best life. Schedule an appointment at Annexus Dermatology & Aesthetics today. Book a consultation online or call the office and speak with a friendly staff member.
