Psoriasis
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Integrated Dermatology of Bridgeport
Medical Dermatologists & Cosmetic Dermatologists located in Trumbull, CT
Itchy, stinging plaques on your skin or uncomfortable raised areas of red skin under your arms can all be signs of psoriasis. Medical treatment for psoriasis can help you feel more comfortable and confident, so visit Brookside Dermatology Associates if you have or suspect you have psoriasis. The Bridgeport, Connecticut, team offers comprehensive care for psoriasis and is a leader in innovative treatments throughout the northeast. Get expert attention and care today by calling the office or requesting an appointment online.
Psoriasis Q & A
What is psoriasis?
Psoriasis is a medical condition that causes new skin cells to grow within days rather than weeks. This leads to a build-up of cells on the surface of your skin that can appear in large, flaky patches. In most cases, psoriasis is a chronic condition that lasts for life, though there are some things you can do to reduce the severity of your psoriasis, including:
- Knowing and reducing psoriasis triggers
- Using a good psoriasis skin care routine
- Living a healthy lifestyle
- Taking medications for psoriasis when needed
The team at Brookside Dermatology Associates can help you identify triggers and find skin care productions and medications that work to reduce the symptoms of your condition and avoid flare ups.
What does psoriasis look like?
80-90% of psoriasis cases involve plaque psoriasis which causes the formation of thick, scaly patches of dry or silvery skin called plaques. Plaques can also appear raised, red, and scaly. Plaques can show up anywhere on the body, but they’re most commonly found on the:
- Knees
- Elbows
- Lower back
- Scalp
Plaques may vary in size from a single small patch to a large patch of multiple plaques that grow together. Other types of psoriasis may cause redness, swelling, and itching in folds of skin or sensitive areas, like your groin or underarms.
What causes psoriasis?
The exact cause of psoriasis is unknown, though doctors do know that it is an immune-mediated condition with a potential genetic link. Initially, something triggers psoriasis to form and various triggers can cause flare ups of symptoms. Psoriasis is not a skin infection and isn’t contagious if someone comes in contact with your skin.
Psoriasis occurs at equal rates in men and women, though it’s most common in Caucasians and African Americans. It’s most likely to show up between the ages of 15-35, although 10-15% of cases begin before the age of 10. Psoriasis in infants is rare.
How is psoriasis treated?
Treatment for psoriasis depends on the severity of your condition and type of psoriasis that you have. The Brookside Dermatology Associates team offers all types of prescription medications to manage psoriasis. The team also offers advanced treatments for psoriasis, including:
- Narrowband UVB light therapy
- PUVA therapy, which is a combination of psoralen and UVA light
Laser and light therapy can help diminish the symptoms of psoriasis and help your skin clear up more quickly than medications alone.
For relief from the discomfort and unsightly appearance of psoriasis, call or schedule a visit online at Brookside Dermatology Associates now.
