Psoriasis

If you have cracked, scaly, or itchy skin, you might have psoriasis. At Redwood Empire Dermatology in Healdsburg, Santa Rosa, and Oakmont, California, the exceptional dermatology team offers effective psoriasis treatments to improve your skin’s health and overall appearance. Call the office to schedule an appointment or book one online today.

What is psoriasis?

Psoriasis is a common skin condition that may cause red, scaly, itchy, or cracked skin. Common sites for psoriasis include the scalp, elbows, knees, or trunk. While there’s no cure for psoriasis, treatment helps reduce uncomfortable or embarrassing symptoms.

What are the symptoms of psoriasis?

The common symptoms of psoriasis include:

• Dry, cracked skin
• Red patches
• Thick, silvery scales
• Itching, sore, or burning skin
• Thickened, ridged, or pitted nails
• Stiff, swollen joints
• Dandruff-like scaling

Psoriasis flare-ups may come and go or linger long term. The condition is a systemic disease and increases your risk of psoriatic arthritis, depression, heart disease, autoimmune disease, and low self-esteem.

What are the risk factors for psoriasis?

Psoriasis can happen to anyone, but common risk factors for flare-ups include:

• Family history of psoriasis
• Infections
• Dry, cold weather
• Smoking
• Stress
• Skin injuries
• Heavy alcohol consumption
• Some medications

Adopting healthy habits is one of the best ways to reduce your chance of psoriasis or severe symptoms, but you can’t always avoid developing it if you’re prone to the condition. 

How does my provider diagnose psoriasis?

To diagnose psoriasis and develop an effective treatment, the Redwood Empire Dermatology team asks questions about your symptoms, lifestyle habits, and medical history. They evaluate your skin, nails, and hair and may take a small biopsy (tissue sample) for analysis under a microscope. 

How is psoriasis treated?

Common treatments for psoriasis include:

Topical treatments

Your provider may give you topical medicine to improve your skin’s look and overall health.

Light therapy 

The Redwood Empire Dermatology team might recommend noninvasive light therapy to reduce unpleasant symptoms of psoriasis.

Medicines

You may need oral medications or injections to further reduce psoriasis symptoms. The Redwood Empire Dermatology team is educated about the newest and most effective treatments for psoriasis. 

Lifestyle changes

Things you can do at home to alleviate unpleasant symptoms include taking daily baths, using moisturizers, covering the affected areas overnight, and exposing your skin to small amounts of sunlight. 

Don’t drink alcohol in excess and avoid psoriasis triggers, such as stress, smoking, infections, and skin injuries. Eat nutritious foods, stay physically active, and maintain an ideal body weight.

To learn more about the psoriasis treatment options at Redwood Empire Dermatology, call the office or use the online scheduler today.

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