Put the plaques of psoriasis behind you with trusted, specialty dermatology expertise.
With many age-related skin conditions, such as brown spots and wrinkles, ShadeTree Dermatology of Rockledge and Cocoa Beach, Florida, strives to speed up the process of cell turnover, which slows as we age and is further hastened by environmental factors like UV exposure. With psoriasis, the aim is to slow down the cell turnover responsible for this distressing skin condition.
What causes psoriasis?
Increased blood flow contributes to the build-up of skin, manifested as characteristic red discoloration, puffiness, inflammation, and white or silver, flaky crusts of dead skin cells on the skin’s surface. These scales or crusts, known as “plaques,” may arise on the elbows, knees, back, scalp, palms of the hands, and soles of the feet.
What are some other potential signs of psoriasis?
Psoriasis comes in many forms, each with specific features. For instance, guttate psoriasis may resemble chickenpox. These spots can also develop on the arms, legs, face, and ears. The large rashes of inverse psoriasis tend to affect the skin folds, such as the armpits and under the breasts, whereas the bumps and blisters of pustular psoriasis are associated with the hands and feet.
Why should I treat psoriasis sooner rather than later?
Erythrodermic psoriasis is a complication of unstable or poorly managed plaque psoriasis. Affected areas may become so inflamed that they look like they were burnt in a fire. This fiery redness is dangerous because it throws off the body’s chemistry, and, in turn, erythrodermic psoriasis requires prompt medical attention. Additionally, it’s estimated that around 15% of those patients with psoriasis will develop a form of arthritis that attacks the joints and skin. Treatments vary by the type of condition and can go a long way to prevent potentially severe complications and to ease frequently painful and uncomfortable psoriasis symptoms.
How can you treat my psoriasis?
After we understand the nature of your psoriasis, Dr. Vanessa Johnson and her team can make an appropriate treatment recommendation. Complementary therapies may also be incorporated into your unique and tailored treatment plan. Options include topical medications, often dependent on slowing cell turnover and easing inflammation. Systemic oral or injectable medications work throughout the body and may be an appropriate alternative for patients with moderate to severe psoriasis, including plaque psoriasis. In-office procedures at ShadeTree Dermatology include “phototherapy,” which involves the controlled application of UV light to slow the production of skin cells and ease inflammation.
Our providers at ShadeTree in Rockledge and Cocoa Beach, FL, also work closely with patients to identify potential lifestyle “triggers,” which can help to reduce flares. Triggers that need to be addressed or minimized include smoking, poorly managed stress, and alcohol.
Your clearest, most comfortable skin awaits! Call ShadeTree Dermatology at (321) 200-0346 to schedule an appointment at one of our two area offices.
