August 3, 2018
Almost everyone deals with a rash at some point in their life. However, if you are dealing with a more severe, stubborn rash that does not seem to go away, you may have a condition known as Psoriasis. Psoriasis is a chronic condition caused by an overactive immune system which can lead to the development of a rash. Unlike other rashes, it is not contagious, though it should still be treated by a medical professional to prevent it from worsening.
Signs of Psoriasis
As Psoriasis is known to affect both men and women, you may wonder if you are one of the 7.5 million people in the United States to have it. If you suspect you may have it, some of the symptoms you can look for include:
- Dry, cracked skin
- A pink or red rash that later turns white and scale-like
- Rashes on your elbows, knees, scalp, and upper body
- More severe rash in areas that are regularly scratched or irritated
- Dead skin or "scales" all over your clothing and bedding
There is currently no cure for Psoriasis. However, with a doctor's help, there are a variety of therapies that can vastly improve your symptoms.
Treatments for Psoriasis
Luckily, Psoriasis patients have several different options to choose from when it comes to treatment. These options include:
- Phototherapy---The affected areas are treated with Ultra-Violet light rays to slow the growth of skin cells
- Topical medication---Medicine that are applied on top of the rash in order to reduce the scaly, red appearance that is typical of Psoriasis
- Systemic Medication---An oral or injected treatment that can help to slow down the body's immune system
After meeting with a dermatologist to discuss the severity of your case, they can help you decide which therapy will work best for you. Oftentimes, a doctor may prescribe multiple treatments at a time in order to best treat your Psoriasis.
Schedule an Appointment
At Helendale Dermatology and Medical Spa, we offer a variety of different treatments and products to help relieve you of Psoriasis symptoms. Though it may not always be a painful or itchy rash, Psoriasis has been linked to other health concerns such as arthritis and heart disease. For this reason, make sure that you consult Dr. Arthur if you suspect Psoriasis in order to find the treatment that works best for you. Contact us today to request an appointment so that we can help you restore the comfort and confidence you deserve.