Psoriasis is a skin condition that affects more than 7,000,000 people in the United States alone. Both adults and children can be affected by psoriasis. Psoriasis is a chronic condition that affects both adults and children. It’s caused by an abnormal buildup of skin.
What causes psoriasis
Psoriasis affects the immune system and can be caused by environmental or genetic factors. Psoriasis is a disorder of the immune system that affects T lymphocytes, also known as T cells. These cells are responsible for protecting our bodies from foreign particles such as viruses. When a person develops psoriasis the T cells attack their healthy skin cells, resulting in an excessive number of new cells. The extra skin cells can cause a scaling or patchy appearance.
Psoriasis Symptoms
The scalp, knees or feet, hands and elbows can all be affected by psoriasis. It is also common around the genitals. Psoriasis symptoms vary depending on the person but include:
– Red patches
Thickened nails
– Cracked skin
Crusting
– Itching or burning skin
– A pain or soreness
Psoriasis used to be considered a cosmetic problem. Research on psoriasis shows that it’s more than a skin condition. This can lead to a systemic inflammation that affects the joints, cardiovascular system and other organs.
Types and severity of Psoriasis
There are seven different types of psoriasis based on symptoms:
Plaque PsoriasisIt’s most common in patients, and results in silvery-white scales on the red lesions.
Guttate Psoriasis This condition is usually found in children or young adults and is characterized by small red patches.
Pustular psoriasis This type is caused by UV light or medication, and causes red areas of skin covered in pus-filled blisters.
Inverse psoriasis Includes bright red lesions
Nail Psoriasis : The nails become thick, yellow and scaly.
Erythrodermic psoriasis : This rare form of psoriasis causes redness and scaling in large areas.
Psoriatic arthritis: Pain and stiffness in the joints are two of the most common symptoms.
How Can You Treat Psoriasis?
Consult a dermatologist to treat the chronic disease of Psoriasis. The dermatologist will examine your case and recommend a medical treatment. This treatment aims to eliminate the psoriasis symptoms and stop the abnormal production of skin cells.
Topical treatment: This involves the use of ointments such as topical retinoids or corticosteroids to target skin cell growth and inflammation.
Light therapy: This is a method of reducing the production of skin cells by exposing a patient to sunlight.
Oral Medicine: In severe psoriasis cases, the dermatologist will prescribe medications like retinoids or cyclosporine.
Biological injections: These involve administering an injectable to target T cells that cause psoriasis.
How to Contact a Psoriasis Skin Specialist
Psoriasis can be stressful. Dallas Dermatology Partners’ psoriasis specialists can provide you with everything you need to combat psoriasis. Contact a dermatologist as soon as possible to have your psoriasis evaluated and receive a customized treatment plan based on your condition.
