Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune condition that causes skin cells to multiply more quickly than usual, leading to areas of inflammation and scale. It is not contagious and cannot spread from person to person.
Psoriasis can look different depending on the person and their skin tone. Common signs include red, pink, or purple patches covered with thick, whitish or silver-colored scales. Affected skin may itch, burn, feel sore, or become dry enough to crack and bleed. Some people may also experience stiff or swollen joints.
Symptoms often occur in cycles, with flare-ups lasting days or weeks followed by periods when the condition becomes less noticeable. Steele Creek Dermatology provides care for psoriasis and other chronic skin conditions through our medical dermatology services.
COMMON PSORIASIS SYMPTOMS
- Inflamed patches of skin
- Thick or scaly areas
- Itching
- Burning or soreness
- Dry or cracked skin
- Bleeding from severely cracked areas
- Some patients may experience Stiff or swollen joints
WHAT CAUSES PSORIASIS?
The exact cause of psoriasis is not fully understood. Research suggests that both the immune system and genetics play an important role. People with a family history of psoriasis may have a greater likelihood of developing the condition.
Symptoms can also come and go over time. Individual triggers vary, and factors such as stress or other environmental and lifestyle influences may contribute to flare-ups in some people.
Because psoriasis can resemble other inflammatory skin conditions, an evaluation can help confirm the diagnosis and guide an appropriate treatment plan.
There is currently no cure for psoriasis, but psoriasis treatment can help control inflammation, reduce scaling and itching, and make flare-ups more manageable. The appropriate approach depends on the severity of your symptoms, the areas affected, and how your skin has responded to previous treatment.
Treatment options can include topical medications applied directly to the skin. For patients with more extensive or persistent psoriasis, additional therapies such as oral or injectable medications or light-based treatment may be considered.
Your provider will evaluate your skin, discuss your symptoms and medical history, and recommend care based on your individual needs.
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