Psoriasis
What is Psoriasis?
Psoriasis is a chronic skin condition that occurs when skin cells grow too rapidly. This causes flaky, red or silver patches of skin that can become inflamed, itch, scale, and crust. Normal skin cells turn over and flake about once per month. Sufferers of psoriasis have skin cells that build-up quickly and form patches called plaques. They can range in size and location on the body, forming on the elbows, hands, knees, scalp, and lower back. There is no permanent cure for psoriasis, however, there are numerous treatments that can keep the condition from flaring up.
What are the Symptoms of Psoriasis?
The most common symptoms of psoriasis are raised, bright red patches of skin that are covered with loose and silvery scales. The scalp can experience mild scaling or thick, crusted plaques. Itching is common before flare-ups especially when psoriatic patches occur in body folds. There are a few types of psoriasis:
Guttate psoriasis: Characterized by red spots that appear all over the skin and often appear after an illness.
Pustular psoriasis: Common symptoms include red, swollen skin with pus-filled bumps that can cover the palms and soles and may be painful.
Inverse psoriasis: Smooth, red patches of skin that appear raw looking. Patches develop only where skin contacts other skin such as the armpits.
Erythrodermic psoriasis: Common symptoms include areas of skin that look burned and most, if not all, of the body turns bright red and the body can’t maintain a normal temperature. Immediate treatment must be south for this type of psoriasis.
How is Psoriasis Treated?
There is no cure for psoriasis, but a variety of treatments are available depending on the severity and type.
Mild cases can be treated with prescription lotions, creams, and ointments.
When the scalp is affected, shampoos, sprays, and oils can be used.
Prescription drugs can be taken orally or by injection. They are usually used for individuals with moderate to severe psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis.
Biologic drugs are usually prescribed for moderate to severe psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis that has not responded to other treatments. They are given by injection or intravenous infusion.
Advancements in laser therapy have made huge improvements for many patients. Exposing a patient’s skin to special ultraviolet light helps reduce symptoms and look of the skin.
If you suspect psoriasis or if your condition is worsening, please contact our Utah Dermatology clinic by calling 801-397-6125 today to schedule an appointment.