Psoriasis
in Phoenix, Arizona
Medical dermatology is an essential branch of healthcare focusing on diagnosing and treating a wide range of skin conditions. At Arizona Skin, we pride ourselves on offering comprehensive medical dermatology services to patients throughout the Greater Phoenix area, including Surprise, Scottsdale, and Buckeye. Our experienced dermatologists are equipped to address various skin issues and complex skin diseases. We understand the importance of healthy skin and are committed to providing personalized care to ensure the best possible outcomes for our patients.
WHAT IS PSORIASIS?
Arizona Skin offers a wide variety of treatments for psoriasis, which is a recurring skin condition that develops when skin cells grow too rapidly, resulting in red, dry patches of skin that are often itchy and scaly. These patches of skin can range in size and often form on the elbows, knees, hands, scalp, and lower back. There are many different forms of psoriasis, but plaque psoriasis is the most common.
Though many cases of psoriasis are considered mild, a few are difficult to treat and can require a number of therapies throughout a patient’s lifetime. It’s also important to note that psoriasis is not contagious and is often caused by an overactive immune system. When psoriasis is diagnosed, treatment is merely a matter of addressing the symptoms so as to minimize flare-ups. If you live in the Greater Phoenix area and are suffering from chronic skin issues, call our office to schedule a consultation today.
WHAT CAUSES PSORIASIS?
The exact cause of psoriasis is unknown, but it’s believed to be triggered by a hyperactive immune system, strep-throat, and stress. If your body is fighting off an infection, the immune system may go into overdrive and attack healthy skin cells by mistake. Additionally, it’s thought that psoriasis could be a genetic condition. Roughly 1/3 of people who have psoriasis also have a family history of the condition. Scientists believe that specific genes interacting with one another may lead to psoriasis. Symptoms can appear after triggers, like a stressful event, infection, dry weather, an injury to the skin, or certain medications.
TREATMENTS FOR PSORIASIS
Though there is no cure for psoriasis, there are a number of treatments available to ease and control the symptoms based on the severity and type of psoriasis that you have. Mild cases may be cleared with prescription ointments, creams, and lotions. If your scalp is affected, then shampoos, sprays, and oils can be used to reduce outbreaks. Systemic medications are prescription drugs that are taken orally or injected and work throughout the entire body. They are often prescribed for patients with moderate to severe psoriasis. Additionally, advancements in laser treatment have provided huge improvements for a number of psoriasis cases. Using phototherapy to expose a patient’s skin to a special ultraviolet light may help to reduce symptoms.
EASE OUTBREAKS
Psoriasis may be embarrassing and uncomfortable, making it hard to complete simple activities in your daily life. If this is the case for you, we invite you to call Arizona Skin to schedule a comprehensive skin exam. During your initial consultation, our team will examine your condition and create a unique treatment plan to help reduce your symptoms and boost your overall quality of life.
If you are experiencing any skin concerns or conditions, don’t hesitate to reach out to Arizona Skin. Our team of experts is here to provide you with the highest quality medical dermatology care in the Greater Phoenix area. Contact us today to schedule your appointment and take the first step towards healthier skin. We welcome patients from Scottsdale, Surprise, and Buckeye, Arizona.