What Are The Early Signs of Psoriasis That I Should Look For?

Psoriasis is a chronic skin disorder that is difficult to treat. Psoriasis is caused by skin cells that regenerate more quickly than normal. These fast growing skin cells cause red and white patches of skin on the hands, face, knees, scalp, feet, elbows and lower back. Adults tend to get the skin issue more often than children do, though children can get psoriasis, too. The red and white patches are unsightly, causing the person with psoriasis embarrassment.

When should I see my medical dermatologist?

If you see the telltale signs of psoriasis, see your medical dermatologist right away. Your dermatologist can diagnose psoriasis just by looking at your skin, and without painful or expensive medical tests.

What causes psoriasis? Our Scarsdale dermatologist explains.

Psoriasis is not contagious, and can’t be spread by touching a person suffering from the skin problem. Psoriasis can range from a little rash to itchy, sore patches of skin spread to large areas of the body and that are very uncomfortable.

Experts believe that the condition is caused by the immune system overreacting to some cause that makes the skin flake off and become inflamed. Psoriasis can be genetically acquired. Stress, cold air, dry air, infections and some medications can cause psoriasis flares to become worse. Using alcohol, smoking and over exposure to sunlight can make it worse.

Treatment for this skin condition in Westchester County

Psoriasis can be hard to treat in some cases. It is important to be patient and keep trying your dermatological treatment options until you find the one that works the best for you. Your dermatologist may suggest over-the-counter creams or lotions specifically for your psoriasis that will reduce swelling, inflammation and skin tenderness when applied. Other solutions for a psoriasis flare are: prescription medications that are applied to the skin such as corticosteroids, calcipotriene, anthralin and tar. There are pills or shots available to treat psoriasis as well as biologic medicines which are given via IVs.

Short-term exposure to UV light is also a treatment used for psoriasis sufferers. This treatment is called photodynamic therapy, and has proved to be a successful treatment for the skin ailment.

What should I do to treat my psoriasis?

If your skin is showing signs of psoriasis, contact our skin care offices in either Scarsdale or Manhattan. Our board certified dermatologists can help you realize clearer, healthier skin. Your skin doctor will be able to determine your exact type of psoriasis and the best treatment for giving you clear, beautiful skin.