Understanding Psoriasis: Causes, Symptoms, and Triggers

Psoriasis is uncomfortable, and it can be embarrassing if psoriasis patches develop on exposed skin. Your dermatologist can help you get relief from psoriasis. Dr. Jennifer Cather at Mindful Dermatology in Dallas, TX, offers comprehensive medical and cosmetic dermatology services, including the diagnosis, treatment, and management of psoriasis.

What You Need To Know About Psoriasis

Psoriasis is caused by genetic autoimmune factors. When you have psoriasis, skin cells are produced too quickly, resulting in the development of dry, scaly, itchy patches. These patches can appear on your scalp, elbows, behind your knees, and other parts of your body. Psoriasis patches can itch, sometimes severely. A psoriasis outbreak can be triggered by a few issues and conditions, including:

• Stress
• Illness
• Skin injuries
• Excessive exposure to sun
• Excessive exposure to cold or dry weather
• Drinking alcohol or smoking
• Hormonal fluctuations

Your dermatologist will customize your treatment depending on the severity of psoriasis. Severity is categorized by the percentage of your body that is affected.

Mild psoriasis affects less than 3% of your body. Treatment for mild psoriasis may include:

• Prescription moisturizing creams, shampoos, or bath treatments
• Topical steroid treatments to reduce itching and slow down skin cell growth
• Light therapy using natural sunlight, lasers, or phototherapy to eliminate psoriasis patches

Moderate psoriasis affects 3% to 10% of your body, and severe psoriasis affects over 10% of your body. Treatment for moderate-to-severe psoriasis may include:

• Prescription oral medications to lower skin cell production and reduce inflammation
• Biologic drugs to suppress the immune system and reduce psoriasis breakouts.
• Light therapy using natural sunlight, lasers, or phototherapy to eliminate psoriasis patches

Want To Know More About Psoriasis?

To discover more about the causes, treatment, and management of psoriasis, including avoiding psoriasis triggers, talk with an expert. Call Dr. Cather at Mindful Dermatology in Dallas, TX. You can reach her in the office by calling (214) 265-1806, so call today.