Psoriasis
Psoriasis is a treatable skin condition that causes dry, scaly, and itchy patches on the surface of the skin.
This condition varies in intensity from individual to individual and from episode to episode. It is possible to have long intervals of time in between flare-ups.
Treatment for psoriasis is largely centered around the management of symptoms because there is no known cure for this condition. Psoriasis may be experienced along with other conditions associated with immune disorders.
Our compassionate team of dermatologists will work with you to create a management and treatment plan for your psoriasis.
What are the Symptoms?
Primary symptoms of psoriasis include:
- Red patches of skin
- Dry patches on skin
- Scaly areas of skin
- Itching
- Pain
- Burning sensation
- Silvery discoloration on skin
Note that some symptoms can arise out of psoriasis that are not directly connected with the skin. These include:
- Achy, swollen, and/or stiff joints
- Thickened finger or toenails
- Pitted or ridged finger or toenails
Types of Psoriasis
There are many kinds of this condiiton, depending on where it is located on the body, how it is presented, and its seriousness. They are:
- Plaque. Silverish, or white-ish patches over red, inflamed areas of the skin. This is the most common type of psoriasis.
- Pustular. Presents as pus-filled white blisters and wide swaths of red, swollen skin in localized areas.
- Inverse. Shows as bright pink, shiny patches of skin, usually in warm, moist areas like the groin, under the breasts or armpits.
- Guttate. Presents as tiny, flat, pink spots alone or in clusters.
- Erythrodermic. This type can be life-threatening. It generally covers large areas of the body and may appear very much like a sunburn. Often accompanied by a fever and a feeling of illness.
Certain types are very benign and go away on their own, while other types can be life-threatening. This is why it is so important to always have your conditions diagnosed and analyzed by your dermatologist.
What Causes It?
The symptoms may come and go. However, with attention and focus, certain life events or behaviors may be found in psoriasis episodes.
Common triggers for episodes include:
- Overindulgence in sugary foods and alcohol
- Increased stress
- Traumatic events
- Other illnesses, such as flu or cold
It is thought that this is an autoimmune condition, which is caused by the body’s own immune system attacking itself. It is believed that the immune system overreacts to stimuli, resulting in the visible skin outbreaks mentioned above.
Certain people are more likely to develop this, especially those with:
- Family history of psoriasis
- Heart disease
- Type 2 diabetes
- IBD (inflammatory bowel disease)
- Chronic depression
- Chronic anxiety
- Psoriatic arthritis
Treatment Options For Psoriasis
At our contemporary dermatology clinic in Garland, Howsden Dermatology offers insights into diverse treatments. Schedule your appointment today for personalized information and care.
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