Psoriasis

What are the symptoms of psoriasis?

Psoriasis is a skin disease with several different forms, each with its own symptoms. These include:

Plaque psoriasis

About nine out of 10 people with psoriasis have plaque psoriasis. It causes plaques — thick patches of skin that often have white or silver scales. Plaques typically appear on the knees, elbows, scalp, and lower back, but can also happen on other parts of the body.

Inverse psoriasis

Inverse psoriasis develops only where skin touches, for example, the underarms, under the breasts in women, and in the groin area. This type of psoriasis is generally smooth and bright red.

Guttate psoriasis

Guttate psoriasis features small scaly spots, commonly on the trunk and limbs. 

Pustular psoriasis

Pustular psoriasis causes pus-filled bumps that commonly occur on the hands or feet. 

Erythrodermic psoriasis

Erythrodermic psoriasis causes intensely red skin that may look like a burn. Skin can slough off in sheets. 

You can have two types of psoriasis at once. But, in most cases, it starts with plaque psoriasis. 

Psoriasis can also affect the nails (nail psoriasis) and the joints (psoriatic arthritis). 

What causes psoriasis?

Medical experts believe that genetics and environment both play a role in psoriasis. It occurs when something triggers the immune system to attack your skin. In response, your body produces extra skin cells, but soon, those additional cells accumulate on the skin’s surface to create plaques.

Some (but not all) people who develop psoriasis have family members with the disease. Certain genes may predispose you to psoriasis; however, not everyone who develops the disease has genetic markers. 

Certain triggers may cause psoriasis flare-ups, including: 

• Infections (e.g., strep throat, ear infections)
• Skin injuries
• Cold and dry weather
• Medications
• Stress
• Alcohol
• Smoking

Dr. Richey can diagnose your psoriasis and help you determine your triggers.

How is psoriasis treated?

Psoriasis treatment depends upon what type of psoriasis you have and your symptoms. Dr. Richey may prescribe topical treatments (gel, cream, or liquid), light therapy, or a combination of the two. 

For severe psoriasis that doesn’t get better with more conservative treatments, you may need stronger medications like steroids, immunosuppressants, or biologics. Dr. Richey can also help you avoid any controllable triggers like stress and weather. 

Psoriasis is easier to manage the earlier you start. Call the Hobart K. Richey, MD, PA, office or click on the online scheduler to get expert psoriasis support now.