Psoriasis | Dermatologist in Southlake, TX

Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune disease characterized by abnormal skin patches that are red and form plaques of silvery scales on the skin. However, mild cases may appear as nothing more than a dry patch of skin. Psoriasis is not contagious, you cannot pass the condition from one person to another.  The condition typically affects the skin on the knees, elbows, scalp, lower back and hands, but may occur throughout the body. While psoriasis is considered an autoimmune response, it’s exact cause is unknown. A family history of the disease increases your risk of developing psoriasis. Currently, research is centered on approximately 25 genes thought to be related to psoriasis. At Compassion Dermatology, we can provide a treatment customized to your type and severity of psoriasis that will best provide you with symptomatic relief, a reduction of inflammation and controlling the disease. Contact us today to schedule a consultation with a dermatologist in Southlake, TX.

Diagnosis

A diagnosis of psoriasis is typically based on the skin’s appearance. If the clinical diagnosis is uncertain, your dermatologist in Southlake, TX may take a skin biopsy or scraping, to rule out other potential disorders.

The Four Main Types

While there are a number types of psoriasis, the four main types include erythrodermic,  plaque, inverse and pustular. Ninety percent of cases are plaque psoriasis, also known as psoriasis vulgaris. This type generally presents as areas of red skin with scales. It most commonly affects shins, forearms, scalp and the navel area. Inverse psoriasis typically present as red patches in the skin folds. Pustular psoriasis present as small non-infectious pus-filled blisters. Erythrodermic psoriasis is the term used when the condition becomes widespread, and can begin from any of the other types. This type commonly involves intense itching, swelling and pain. Left untreated, this form of psoriasis can be potentially fatal, although it is rare. The skin is an organ which acts as a barrier to infection and disease, when its function is impaired due to a large scale condition, your health can suffer. Contact us today to schedule a consultation with a dermatologist in Southlake, TX.

Psoriatic Arthritis

Psoriatic arthritis and psoriasis often occur together.  Thirty percent of those with psoriasis will develop psoriatic arthritis, and are more vulnerable to developing other diseases. For example, those with both conditions are more likely to develop specific cancers, such as lymphoma and non-melanoma skin cancer. Due to the risks, those with psoriasis should schedule regular cancer screenings.

Cardiovascular Disease

Cardiovascular disease is also more likely in those with psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis, especially if it is severe. Fortunately, treating the disease reduces the risk of heart attack and stroke. Contact us today to schedule a consultation with a dermatologist in Southlake, TX.

Crohn’s Disease

Those with psoriasis may develop Crohn’s disease. However, those with both psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis are at even greater risk of developing Crohn’s disease. Talk to your doctor if you have symptoms of Crohn’s or other inflammatory bowel disease, such as abdominal cramping, diarrhea and bloody stools.

Obesity

Having psoriasis commonly increases the risk of being obese in children. By age 18 if the obesity remains, the risk of developing psoriatic arthritis increase. Studies reveal losing weight greatly improves symptoms and  the effectiveness of treatment for psoriasis.

Diabetes

Psoriasis increases the risk of developing type 2 diabetes.

Metabolic Syndrome

An association between psoriatic disease and metabolic syndrome has been established. Metabolic syndrome includes a cluster of conditions including heart disease, high blood pressure and abdominal obesity. A survey of 6500 people found that 40% of those with psoriasis had metabolic syndrome. Those with psoriatic arthritis are at even greater risk of developing metabolic syndrome.

Liver Disease

Those with psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis may be more likely to develop nonalcoholic fatty liver disease according to recent studies. In addition, when the psoriasis is a severe form, they are more than twice as likely to develop chronic kidney disease than those with mild psoriasis.

Other diseases are possible if you have psoriasis. Treatment is essential to reduce your risks. Contact Compassion Dermatologist for a consultation with a dermatologist in Southlake, TX.

Treatment

There is no cure for psoriasis, treatment reduces inflammation and clears the skin. However, numerous treatments are available to control the symptoms. Mild cases are often treated with topical creams, lotions, medicated sprays and localized steroid injections. The more severe cases of psoriasis may require systemic medications and/or light treatments. Light therapy may use natural or artificial light treatments, including ultraviolet therapy. Brief controlled exposure to natural sunlight may improve the symptoms of psoriasis. However,  intense or prolonged exposure may worsen it, or cause skin damage. Follow your treatment plan if photo-therapy is part of it. Your dermatologist in Southlake, TX will provide you with a treatment individualized for you.

When you have psoriasis, managing your life can be challenging. Making healthy choices and limiting the stress in your life can help you to live more comfortably. Diet is especially important, as overweight psoriasis sufferers can benefit greatly from losing weight. Talk to your doctor or dermatologist in Southlake, TX before making any drastic changes to your diet. Other triggers include injury, some medications, alcohol and infection.

Follow your doctor’s recommendations. If your doctor recommends specific home treatments such as daily baths, applying moisturizer and others, be sure to follow them. If any instructions are unclear, ask your dermatologist in Southlake, TX for clarification. Contact Compassion Dermatology today to schedule a consultation.