Psoriasis

More than 7.5 million adults in the United States have psoriasis. Don’t live with redness, scaling, and itching caused by this common skin condition. At Integrated Dermatology of West Palm Beach in West Palm Beach, Florida, board-certified dermatologists Andrew Nesterovitch, MD, and Kathleen Herne, MD, diagnose and treat psoriasis to achieve clear, healthy skin and symptom relief. Schedule an evaluation by calling the office or booking a visit online today. 

What is psoriasis?

Psoriasis is a skin condition that causes a rash, itching, and scaly patches — often on your scalp, elbows, trunk, or knees. It’s a chronic disease without a cure, but you can manage psoriasis symptoms with effective treatments available at Integrated Dermatology of West Palm Beach. See its skilled dermatology experts at the first sign of a skin disease.

Which symptoms can psoriasis cause?

The hallmark symptoms of psoriasis include:

• Patchy rash
• Redness
• Dandruff-like scaling
• Rash flares that come and go
• Dry, cracked skin
• Bleeding skin
• Burning, itching, or soreness

Psoriasis rashes vary in color. They may be red, purple, or pink with gray or silver scales, depending on your skin’s natural coloring. 

Psoriasis can also affect your fingernails or toenails, causing discoloration, pitting, and abnormal nail growth. 

What are the risk factors for psoriasis?

Factors that may increase your risk of developing psoriasis or worsen symptoms include:

• Immune system problems
• Infections
• Skin injuries
• Cold, dry weather
• Heavy alcohol consumption
• Smoking
• Rapidly stopping corticosteroids
• Some medications
• Family history of psoriasis

Complications that could occur along with psoriasis include psoriatic arthritis, hyperpigmentation, high blood pressure, heart disease, Type 2 diabetes, eye conditions, autoimmune diseases, and mental health conditions like depression or low self-esteem. 

How is psoriasis diagnosed?

Diagnosing psoriasis with the experts at Integrated Dermatology of West Palm Beach involves discussing your medical history and symptoms and evaluating your skin, nails, and scalp. Your dermatologist may take a skin sample (biopsy) and view it under a microscope to determine the type of psoriasis you have and how to best treat it.

How is psoriasis treated?

Your individualized psoriasis treatment plan may consist of one or more of the following:

• Creams
• Ointments
• Light therapy (phototherapy)
• Oils
• Foams
• Lotions
• Gels
• Shampoos
• Oral medications
• Injectable medications
• Dietary supplements

Follow up with your Integrated Dermatology of West Palm Beach specialist to ensure an effective, long-lasting outcome. They can alter your treatment plan as needed to help you maintain clear, healthy, even-toned skin for the long term.

Schedule a psoriasis evaluation at Integrated Dermatology of West Palm Beach by calling the office or requesting an appointment online today.