Psoriasis

What is Psoriasis?

Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune condition in which new skin cells reproduce at up to 10 times the normal rate. This causes an uncomfortable buildup of skin cells on the surface of your skin, which can become red, dry, and scaly.

Psoriasis can affect any part of the body, but it often develops on the:

• Hands
• Legs
• Scalp
• Face
• Feet
• Nails

Psoriasis is a chronic condition that may come and go over the course of your life. You may have flare-ups that appear for weeks then resolve, only to return again.

Psoriasis also increases your risk for conditions like psoriatic arthritis and systemic infections. Expert long-term care is important for the prevention and treatment of psoriatic flare-ups.

What are the Symptoms of Psoriasis?

There are several types of psoriasis, and each has its own set of symptoms. If you’re suffering from the condition, you may experience:

• Dry or cracked skin
• Thick, flaky, and scaly patches
• Blistered or peeling skin
• Inflamed, itchy, and reddened skin
• Discolored or separated fingernails and toenails
• Burning, painful skin
• Swollen, stiff joints

You may experience these symptoms over a small or large area of your body. Symptoms may increase in severity and last weeks or months, then disappear for as much as several years.

How is Psoriasis Treated?

Psoriasis is chronic and not entirely curable. Your treatment plan focuses on relieving your symptoms and preventing future flare-ups by identifying and avoiding triggers.

Your doctor at Mohs Surgery & Dermatology Center may recommend:

• Corticosteroid creams
• Vitamin D analog creams
• Topical vitamin A retinoid creams
• Salicylic acid ointment
• UVB phototherapy

The skin experts at Mohs Surgery & Dermatology Center work closely with each psoriasis patient and are committed to helping you throughout your struggle with the condition.

For expert treatment of psoriasis, call or book an appointment online today.