Psoriasis

What is psoriasis?

Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune skin condition that you’ll have for the rest of your life. It comes with symptoms like red, scaly, and itchy patches that tend to flare-up intermittently. 

You can have psoriasis with no symptoms for months or even years at a time, as the disease occurs in cycles. 

You get symptoms of psoriasis when your body produces skin cells at an exceedingly rapid rate. The dead skin cells build up on the surface to form patches and scales. While the patches are often very itchy, psoriasis isn’t contagious, so you can’t spread it to others. 

Professional psoriasis treatments available at Jordan Valley Dermatology Center can help you manage your symptoms and reduce flare-ups. You should consider booking an appointment if your symptoms are highly irritating or frequent, or if they lead to issues in your joints. 

Which type of psoriasis do I have?

There are several different types of psoriasis with similar signs and symptoms. At Jordan Valley Dermatology Center, Dr. Forsha and his team examine your skin and might take a biopsy to test in a lab. They also ask about your symptoms and the triggers that lead to flare-ups. Based on all of this information, they might conclude that you have:

Plaque psoriasis

Plaque psoriasis is the most common type and occurs in silvery scaly patches on your elbows, knees, scalp, and lower back.

Guttate psoriasis

Guttate psoriasis occurs as small red and scaly spots. Children often develop this type after infections like strep throat.

Inverse psoriasis

Inverse psoriasis causes shinier and smoother patches than other types. They develop in areas where your skin folds against itself, like your armpits.

Pustular psoriasis

Pustular psoriasis includes scaly skin like other types but also causes pus-filled blisters on your hands and feet. 

Generalized pustular psoriasis

Generalized pustular psoriasis is extremely rare and requires a trip to the emergency room. You quickly develop dry, red skin and soon get widespread pus-filled blisters.

Erythrodermic psoriasis

Erythrodermic psoriasis looks more like burns than scaly patches of skin. You should seek treatment right away if you get symptoms of this type. 

What are my treatment and management options for psoriasis?

Dr. Forsha and his team develop a psoriasis management plan to help reduce your symptoms. Certain treatments help remove scales and reduce flare-ups while others help stop your skin cells from reproducing too quickly. 

The team at Jordan Valley Dermatology Center might recommend:

• Corticosteroids
• Retinoids
• Salicylic acid
• Excimer laser therapy
• Sunlight exposure therapy
• Artificial UV light therapy

In addition to clinical treatments and prescription medications, Dr. Forsha and his team might recommend certain types of home care like baths, moisturizing, and identifying and avoiding your unique triggers.

To learn more about the specific types of psoriasis and get treatment for your flare-ups, call Jordan Valley Dermatology Center or book an appointment online today.

*Individual results may vary.