Psoriasis is a persistent skin condition that can significantly impact your quality of life. At Dermatology Center, we understand the challenges of living with psoriasis and offer advanced treatments to help you manage your symptoms effectively.
Signs & Symptoms of Psoriasis
Psoriasis manifests as red, scaly, and often itchy patches on the skin, stemming from an overactive immune system that accelerates the production of skin cells. This condition can vary in severity and may follow a pattern of flare-ups and remissions.
While the hallmark sign of psoriasis is a red, scaly rash, there are several types, each with distinct symptoms:
- Plaque Psoriasis: This is the most prevalent type, characterized by raised, red patches covered with a silvery-white buildup of dead skin cells. Commonly affected areas include the elbows, knees, lower back and scalp.
- Guttate Psoriasis: Often appearing after a bacterial infection, this type is more common in children and young adults. It features small, dot-like lesions primarily on the trunk and limbs.
- Inverse Psoriasis: Affecting skin folds such as those under the arms, breasts or in the groin area, this type presents as smooth, red patches that can be particularly painful.
- Pustular Psoriasis: This rare form causes white pustules surrounded by red skin, typically on the hands and feet but can occur anywhere on the body.
- Erythrodermic Psoriasis: The least common type, erythrodermic psoriasis, results in widespread redness and peeling of the skin, often covering large portions of the body and requiring immediate medical attention.
- Psoriatic Arthritis: Beyond skin symptoms, this type involves joint inflammation, leading to pain and stiffness.
During your initial consultation, our dermatologist will conduct a comprehensive examination, reviewing your medical history and symptoms. While a visual inspection is often sufficient for diagnosis, a skin biopsy may be performed to confirm the type of psoriasis.
Psoriasis Treatment Options
Managing psoriasis involves a personalized approach aimed at reducing skin cell production and alleviating symptoms. Treatment plans are tailored to your specific type of psoriasis, the severity of your condition and your overall health. Options may include:
- Topical Treatments: Such as corticosteroids, vitamin D analogues and retinoids.
- Oral Medications: Including methotrexate and cyclosporine.
- Light Therapy: Utilizing UV light to slow skin cell turnover.
- Biologics: Targeting specific parts of the immune system to control inflammation.
Finding the right treatment may require time and adjustments to achieve the best results. Our team is dedicated to working with you to develop a management plan that helps control your symptoms and improve your quality of life.
For more information about treating psoriasis in Orem, Utah, and to schedule your appointment with Dr. Devin Burr, Byron Edwards, Natalie Bee and Olga Sambu, reach out to us today at 801-224-5200.