Psoriasis

More than 3% of the United States population has psoriasis, characterized by a rash or flaky, scaly, thickened, and discolored skin. At Integrated Dermatology of Chesterfield in Chesterfield, New Hampshire, serving New Hampshire, Southern Vermont, and Massachusetts, experienced dermatologists Lisa Ahava, PA-C, and Jorge Crespo, MD, diagnose and treat psoriasis to enhance your skin’s health and appearance. Schedule a dermatology evaluation at Integrated Dermatology of Chesterfield by phone or online today.

What is psoriasis?

Psoriasis is an autoimmune condition that causes inflammation and flaky, dry, itchy, scaly, thickened, or red skin patches that appear in small areas on the skin or all over your body. There’s no cure, and the symptoms of psoriasis may flare up unexpectedly, but effectively managing the disease can ease any discomfort and clear up your skin.

What are the symptoms of psoriasis?

The symptoms of psoriasis include:

• Inflamed skin
• Thick, discolored skin patches
• Small bumps
• Scaly skin (plaques)
• Flaky skin
• Skin shedding
• Nail pitting, cracking, crumbling, or discoloration 
• Widespread skin discoloration or scaling
• Bleeding
• Itchy skin
• Cracked, dry skin
• Joint pain

Psoriasis flare-ups may come and go or appear unexpectedly without treatment. Psoriasis rashes can appear anywhere on the body, including your scalp, face, elbows, knees, fingernails, toenails, genital area, hands, or feet. Sometimes, it appears on the inside of the mouth. 

What are the risk factors for psoriasis?

Psoriasis affects millions of people of every age, gender, and race. Risk factors for developing psoriasis or experiencing a flare-up include:

• Irritants
• Allergens
• Infections
• Emotional stress
• Injury to the skin
• Some medications
• Body temperature changes
• Family history of psoriasis
• Obesity
• Excessive alcohol consumption 

One in three people diagnosed with psoriasis also develop psoriatic arthritis, an inflammatory condition that causes abnormal immune system functioning and joint pain and damage, if left untreated. 

How is psoriasis diagnosed?

Diagnosing psoriasis at Integrated Dermatology of Chesterfield requires a discussion about your medical history and symptoms and a physical exam to look for signs of psoriasis. Your provider might also take a biopsy (tissue sample) to confirm your diagnosis and rule out other skin conditions. 

How is psoriasis treated?

There’s no cure for psoriasis, but treatment can help you better manage any symptoms. The experts at Integrated Dermatology of Chesterfield may suggest one or more of the following:

• Topical medications
• Creams
• Moisturizers
• Light therapy
• Biologis (injectable drugs)
• Oral medications
• Medicated shampoos or lotions
• Vitamin A retinoids
• Vitamin D3 ointments
• Combining medications with ultraviolet light
• Immune therapies 
• Healthy lifestyle changes

It’s helpful to eat a well-balanced diet, exercise regularly, avoid smoking, minimize stress, and get plenty of sleep. Follow up with Integrated Dermatology of Chesterfield to ensure your treatment is effective and your symptoms are well-managed.

Schedule a psoriasis evaluation at Integrated Dermatology of Chesterfield by calling the office or booking an appointment online today.