Psoriasis is a chronic, inflammatory skin condition that can be the source of significant discomfort and feelings of self-consciousness for many people. Currently, over 10 million Americans suffer from psoriasis, making it the most common autoimmune disease in the world.
While psoriasis is a persistent, non-contagious skin condition, it presents as red, scaly patches that can become thick, itchy, and irritating. At Houston Skin, we understand that uncomfortable, visible skin conditions can negatively impact multiple areas of your life, including your self-confidence, ability to sleep, and even relationships. That is why our practitioners at Houston Skin are committed to providing the most effective medical dermatology treatments available for the long-term improvement of psoriasis.
What Is Psoriasis?
Psoriasis is an autoimmune disease that causes a person’s immune system to send faulty messages to the brain, telling the skin to grow so quickly that plaques form. Not only can these plaques vary in size, but they can appear on multiple areas of the body, including the knees, elbows, hands, feet, and lower back. These thick patches of skin may appear white, silvery, or red.
When psoriasis is mild, the rash may appear on small areas of the body. However, when a patient is suffering from a flare-up, the skin may become itchy and sore, with plaques joining together to cover large areas of the skin. These areas can become inflamed and raised, often with a loose covering of silvery scales.
The 7 Forms of Psoriasis:
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Large Plaque
Patients will experience large patches of red, scaly skin, most commonly on the elbows, knees, and lower back, but it may also appear on any part of the body.
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Guttate
With this skin condition, the patient’s skin forms very small pink spots of psoriasis.
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Pustular
This condition causes patients to experience a rash that contains pus bumps.
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Erythrodermic
The patient’s entire skin will be red or painful with this type of psoriasis.
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Joint or psoriatic arthritis
This condition causes inflammation of the joints, which, if left untreated, will ultimately destroy the affected areas.
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Scalp
Patients may also experience red, scaly patches along the scalp. This can be limited to the scalp, or involve other areas of the body.
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Nails
Psoriasis can also affect the nails. This can appear as pitting, thickening, or discoloration of the nails. This can be limited or occur in conjunction with other forms of psoriasis.
While psoriasis can occur at any age, most people begin to show symptoms between the ages of 15 and 30 or 50 and 60 years old. However, some children can also suffer from psoriasis.
The exact cause remains unknown, but it is widely accepted that genetics play a strong role. There are also certain psoriasis triggers that can lead to the development of dry, itchy skin, including:
- Strep throat
- Certain medications
- Dry, cold weather
- Skin injury
In addition to these triggers, specific factors can also lead to flare-ups or worsening symptoms. Some of these factors include dry skin, stress, infection, and exposure to extremes in temperature.
It’s important to understand that, while the physical symptoms are uncomfortable, they are only part of the puzzle when it comes to psoriasis. This skin condition also causes internal inflammation, which has been found to be linked to other potentially dangerous health conditions such as diabetes, heart problems, and degenerative joint arthritis.
Managing Psoriasis with Expert Treatment
The first step in managing your psoriasis is getting a definitive diagnosis with one of the medical dermatologists at Houston Skin. A diagnosis involves evaluating the patches and plaques on your skin and examining your nails.
Depending on your type of psoriasis, there are several medical dermatology treatments that we use at Houston Skin to help you manage your symptoms. Some of these treatments include:
Medical Grade Skin Care
Properly managing dry skin is crucial for managing psoriasis symptoms. Our practitioners are skin care experts and will use the most appropriate medical grade skincare products to help moisturize the skin while also reducing inflammation.
Medications
Certain prescription drugs can treat moderate to severe psoriasis. These medications are usually administered orally, by injection, or intravenously.
Topical Steroids
Topical steroids are anti-inflammatory agents that can help provide immediate relief for the swelling and redness caused by psoriasis plaques and lesions.
Meet The Team
Our Houston team of Board-Certified Dermatologists and licensed skin care providers brings a wealth of experience and a passion for healthy skin. With extensive clinical experience and the highest levels of training, our doctors are committed to delivering exceptional care and achieving optimal results for every patient. We prioritize your comfort and safety, promoting a positive and reassuring experience throughout your journey to vibrant skin. We’re honored to be your trusted provider of quality medical dermatology care and your partners in achieving and maintaining your skin’s health.
Feel Good About Your Skin
Ready to unlock your skin’s full potential? Schedule a psoriasis treatment consultation at one of our convenient Houston Skin locations today. Our board-certified dermatologists will provide a personalized assessment and recommend the ideal treatments to help you achieve and maintain healthy, vibrant skin. Call now or schedule a consultation online to take the first step towards a more confident, radiant you.
