Psoriasis in Lenox Hill, NY
Psoriasis is a skin condition that shows up as red scaly patches on your skin. These patches can often feel itchy and can make you uncomfortable in your skin. Psoriasis is a common condition that has no cure. However, there are treatments from our dermatologists in Lenox Hill, NY, that can help you manage your symptoms and live your best life!
Characteristics of Psoriasis
Everyone may experience different signs and symptoms of psoriasis and severity will vary from person to person. Some of the common signs associated with psoriasis include:
- Red, scaly patches of skin.
- Dry, cracked skin that can itch or bleed.
- Itching or soreness.
- Swollen or stiffness in the joints.
- Thickened or ridged nails.
Areas Affected By Psoriasis
The areas that are most commonly affected include the lower back, knees, legs, scalp, palms, elbows, and face. A breakout can range anywhere from small patches to larger areas covered in breakouts. Psoriasis can be dormant for months before a flare-up that can last anywhere from a few weeks to a few months.
When you do experience a flare-up, it’s important to get started on treatments to help keep your reaction to a minimum and stop it from being too irritated and spreading. The treatments your doctor prescribes will depend on the severity of your psoriasis, and you may need multiple different forms of treatment at a time.
Classification of Psoriasis
Psoriasis can be classified as mild, moderate, or severe, depending on the percentage of your body that is affected by psoriasis patches. Mild psoriasis, which involves 3% of your body, moderate psoriasis, which involves 3% to 10% of your body, and severe psoriasis, which involves over 10% of your body.
Treatment of Mild Psoriasis
For mild cases of psoriasis, your dermatologist may recommend treatment to control itching, which may include:
- Prescription-strength shampoos, bath treatments, and moisturizing creams
- Prescription-strength topical medications with steroids
- Laser or light treatment to limit or get rid of psoriasis patches
Treatment of Moderate to Severe Psoriasis
For moderate to severe psoriasis, the team at Penstein Dermatology may recommend some of the same treatment options for mild psoriasis, plus medications to stop your skin cells from growing as quickly, remove scales, and smooth your skin. Your dermatologist may recommend:
- Medications to reduce inflammation and reduce skin cell production
- Biologic medications to suppress the immune system
What You Can Do to Help Manage Psoriasis
You can do a lot to help yourself when you have psoriasis. For instance, it’s common to have triggers that make your condition worse, like stress. Avoiding triggers like these can help you manage your psoriasis more successfully.