Psoriasis

Psoriasis is a common skin condition that can make it hard to feel confident about the look and feel of your skin. At Northshore Dermatology, a team of professionals offers comprehensive treatment for psoriasis at four locations in Slidell, Madisonville, Hammond, Louisiana, and Picayune, Mississippi. You can easily book a visit whether you choose to connect online or by phone.

What is psoriasis?

Psoriasis is a chronic disease characterized by a scaly, sometimes painful skin rash. While there is no cure for psoriasis, treatment can improve the appearance and feel of your skin. 

According to the National Psoriasis Foundation, as many as 7.5 million American adults have psoriasis. There are multiple types of the disease, and having psoriasis increases your risk of numerous general health conditions, including psoriatic arthritis. 

Researchers believe that psoriasis is an immune-mediated disease. This means your immune system mistakenly perceives a risk of harm and responds to that risk by hastening the production of new skin cells. 

Your existing skin cells cannot shed fast enough to accommodate the newly produced cells, so your skin begins to thicken in patches. This creates the scaly rash associated with psoriasis. Known as plaques, these areas of thickened skin can itch, sting, or burn. 

What are the symptoms of psoriasis?

Understanding the signs of psoriasis can help you know when to seek treatment. Some of the indications of the disease include:

• Patchy skin rash
• Rash that is purple in color with areas of grayscale (dark skin tone)
• Rash that is pink or red in color with areas of silver scale (light skin tone)
• Areas of soreness, itching, or burning
• Dry, cracked skin that sometimes bleeds

Your rash can be limited to one small area of your body or spread over many areas. Rashes can come and go or persist over time.

Are there treatments that can help with psoriasis?

Topical corticosteroids are a common treatment for psoriasis. There are many different options to choose from and different strengths. 

Topical medications containing synthetic forms of vitamin D can help treat psoriasis by slowing the growth of skin cells. These medications are sometimes used in conjunction with corticosteroids. 

Salicylic acid and coal tar applications can reduce the scaling, inflammation, and itching that come with psoriasis. 

Light therapy is a great fit for many people. This approach uses controlled amounts of artificial or natural light. There are multiple options to choose from, and certain types of psoriasis respond better to some forms of light therapy than others. 

Oral medications are also an option. Because drug therapy carries a risk of serious side effects, other options might be pursued prior to moving forward with medication. 

To learn more about psoriasis treatment, schedule a visit at Northshore Dermatology online or over the phone today.