Psoriasis

Psoriasis: An Autoimmune Disease of the Skin

Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune disease that affects the skin. It develops when the immune system mistakenly signals the body to produce new skin cells much faster than normal. Instead of shedding naturally, these skin cells build up on the surface, forming thick, red, scaly plaques.

Although psoriasis most commonly affects the elbows, knees, scalp, and lower back, it can develop almost anywhere on the body. Every patient’s experience is unique. Some people develop a few small patches, while others experience widespread plaques, persistent itching, or frequent flare-ups.

While there is no cure, today’s treatments are more effective than ever and can help many patients achieve long periods of clear or nearly clear skin.

Common Symptoms of Psoriasis

Symptoms vary from person to person but may include:

Thick, raised patches of red, inflamed skin
Silvery scales
Persistent itching or burning
Dry, cracked skin that may bleed
Thickened or pitted fingernails or toenails
Flare-ups that come and go over time

What Causes Psoriasis?

Psoriasis develops when the immune system mistakenly signals the body to produce skin cells too quickly. Genetics play an important role, but environmental factors often trigger flare-ups.

Common triggers include:

Cold, dry weather
Stress
Illness or infections
Skin injuries, cuts, or sunburn
Certain medications
Alcohol
Individual triggers unique to each patient

Learning what triggers your psoriasis can be an important part of long-term management.

How Is Psoriasis Diagnosed?

Most cases of psoriasis can be diagnosed during a skin examination. Your Midwest Dermatology provider will evaluate your skin, discuss your symptoms and medical history, and determine the type and severity of your psoriasis.

Because several skin conditions can resemble psoriasis, an accurate diagnosis is the first step toward successful treatment.

Treatment Options

Treatment is tailored to the severity of your psoriasis, the areas involved, and your lifestyle. Our goal is to reduce inflammation, relieve itching, slow the overproduction of skin cells, and help you maintain healthier skin over time.

Treatment options may include:

Prescription creams, ointments, foams, and lotions
Medicated shampoos and scalp solutions
Oral medications
Light therapy (phototherapy)

Biologic Medications

One of the most significant advances in psoriasis treatment has been the development of biologic medications. Unlike traditional treatments that primarily treat the skin, biologics target the specific parts of the immune system responsible for causing psoriasis.

For many patients with moderate to severe psoriasis, biologics have dramatically improved treatment outcomes. Many experience clearer skin, fewer flare-ups, less itching, and a better quality of life than was possible just a decade ago.

If your psoriasis isn’t well controlled with topical medications or is affecting your daily life, your dermatologist can determine whether a biologic medication may be right for you.

Living With Psoriasis

Living with psoriasis can be physically uncomfortable and emotionally frustrating, but you don’t have to manage it alone. Working closely with your dermatologist can help reduce flare-ups, improve comfort, and keep your skin as healthy as possible.

With the right treatment plan, many patients experience significant improvement and enjoy long periods with little or no active disease.

Schedule an Appointment

If you have persistent red, scaly patches, have been diagnosed with psoriasis but aren’t getting the results you want, or would like to learn about newer treatment options, our board-certified dermatologists can help.

Call (402) 933-0800 or book an appointment online today.

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