Psoriasis Specialist

What is psoriasis?

Psoriasis is an inflammatory skin condition that occurs when your new cells develop so quickly that the dead ones don’t have time to shed off. The cells then build on top of one another, causing uncomfortable symptoms and, in many cases, an embarrassing appearance. 

It most commonly affects your elbows, knees, scalp, and back. However, it can occur on other areas of the body, including your nails, genitals, the palms of your hands, and soles of your feet. It can also affect your joints and can cause psoriatic arthritis. 

Psoriasis is a lifelong condition that can cause the deterioration of your joints. That’s why early treatment and intervention are critical to prevent long-term damage and the loss of physical function.

What are the symptoms of psoriasis?

Symptoms of psoriasis include:

• Red, scaly patches of skin
• Silvery scales
• Itching
• Burning
• Soreness
• Dry, cracked skin
• Ridged or thickened nails
• Swollen, stiff joints

When you have a flare-up, your skin can become so dry and scaly that it may start to bleed.

What causes psoriasis?

The cause of psoriasis hasn’t been defined, but researchers believe it develops when a person’s immune system mistakenly attacks its own skin through activation of T cells, a type of white blood cell. 

Once activated, the T cells trigger inflammation, causing the skin to grow too rapidly. Typically, skin replaces itself every 30 days. However, when you have psoriasis, your skin replaces itself every three to four days. 

Triggers of psoriasis include:

• Stress
• Infections, such as strep throat
• Certain medications
• Cold, dry, winter weather 
• Lack of sunlight
• Obesity
• Excessive alcohol consumption

Your dermatologist can suggest ways to avoid psoriasis flare-ups.

How is psoriasis treated?

Psoriasis doesn’t have a cure, but the Ahwatukee Skin & Laser team offers several treatment options to help control and manage the disease. 

Several factors play into how they treat you, including your health, age, lifestyle, and the severity of your disease.

Treatments may include:

• Oral medications
• Topical or oral corticosteroids
• Prescription topical creams
• Ultraviolet (UV) light therapy
• Biologics

Before you have a psoriasis flare-up, reach out to the team at Ahwatukee Skin & Laser for an appointment. Call or book your visit online today.