Psoriasis is an autoimmune disorder characterized by the rapid production of skin cells, leading to the formation of dry, scaly patches that can be red or white. These patches often appear on the scalp, elbows, knees, and other areas of the body, and can be accompanied by intense itching. At Paducah Dermatology in Paducah, Benton, Murray, KY & Martin, TN, Dr. Halden Ford and Dr. Joseph Blackmon specialize in providing comprehensive care for psoriasis, one of the most common skin conditions.
What is Psoriasis?
Psoriasis is one of the most common skin conditions treated by a dermatologist. It is an autoimmune condition that causes too many skin cells to be produced too quickly.
Signs and Symptoms of Psoriasis
The overproduction of skin cells causes dry, red, or white, scaly patches on the scalp, elbows, behind the knees, and other areas. Uncontrollable itching is another common symptom of psoriasis.
Different Types of Psoriasis
Psoriasis is classified into three types, according to how much of your body is affected:
- Mild psoriasis, which has affected less than 3% of your body
- Moderate psoriasis, which has affected 3% to 10% of your body
- Severe psoriasis, which has affected over 10% of your body
Professional Treatments for Psoriasis
Your dermatologist in Paducah, Benton, Murray, KY & Martin, TN, has several effective treatments to help you get relief from psoriasis. These include:
- Prescription moisturizing creams, shampoos, or bath treatments.
- Topical steroid treatments reduce itching and slow the growth of skin cells.
- Light therapy, using natural sunlight, lasers, or phototherapy, to eliminate psoriasis patches.
- Prescription oral medications, including cyclosporine and methotrexate, reduce skin cell production and limit inflammation.
- Biologic drugs suppress the immune system and reduce psoriasis breakouts.
What You Can Do to Manage Psoriasis Triggers
Psoriasis has several triggers. If you avoid these triggers, you can do a lot to manage psoriasis outbreaks. Common psoriasis triggers include:
- Stress
- Illness
- Skin injuries
- Excessive sun exposure
- Excessive cold or dry weather exposure
- Smoking and drinking alcohol
- Hormonal changes
Want to Know More About Psoriasis?
You can get relief from psoriasis and enjoy clear skin. You need the help of your dermatologist. To learn more about the causes, signs, symptoms, and treatment of psoriasis, contact Dr. Ford and Dr. Blackmon at Paducah Dermatology. Get help for psoriasis by contacting your local office in Paducah, Benton, Murray, KY & Martin, TN, today at the following phone numbers:
Paducah, KY, by calling (270) 444-8477
Murray, KY, by calling (270) 761-8477
Benton, KY, by calling (270) 444-8477
Martin, TN, by calling (731) 261-8920
