Suffering from psoriasis? Let Dr. Michael Rogers, Dr. Brooke Rogers, Dr. Alex Kennon, and Barbara Ross, APRN-C at Lakeside Dermatology in Sebring and Winter Haven, FL, help find the best treatment techniques to bring you the relief you deserve.
Understanding the Basics of Psoriasis
We’ve all gotten a skin rash at some point and know just how irritating they can be. However, if your rash involves raised, red, scaly skin on your scalp, knees, elbows, or other seemingly odd places, it’s more likely a condition called psoriasis. In the guide below, Dr. Michael Rogers, Dr. Brooke Rogers, Dr. Alex Kennon, and Barbara Ross, APRN-C at Lakeside Dermatology in Sebring and Winter Haven, FL, share the basics of this skin condition and what you can do about it.
What Is It, and What Causes It?
Rashes tend to occur in response to something, like touching a plant, wearing a piece of jewelry, trying a new laundry detergent, or even medication.
Psoriasis, however, is a bit different. It’s caused by an overactive immune system attacking the body. The overreaction causes skin cells to grow faster than you shed them, leading them to build up in some areas. The elbows, knees, and scalp are common targets, but it can happen on the hands, eyebrows, mouth, armpits, and anywhere else on the body.
Fortunately, it’s not contagious, but it is also not curable at this time. And it can be difficult to manage on your own.
How Is It Treated?
Managing psoriasis typically involves a combination of techniques, according to your specific needs. One of these involves lifestyle adjustments. Certain activities, foods, or habits, such as smoking, can trigger flare-ups. Avoiding or minimizing these triggers, as well as steps like taking oatmeal baths, can reduce your suffering.
Topical medication, such as lotions and shampoos, can be beneficial in controlling itching and inflammation. Oral medications may also be prescribed. UV therapy can also be effective in slowing down the rapid regrowth of skin cells. After determining the type and severity of your condition, as well as where it is present, a customized management plan can be developed.
Take control of your psoriasis symptoms by working with Dr. Michael Rogers, Dr. Brooke Rogers, Dr. Alex Kennon, and Barbara Ross, APRN-C at Lakeside Dermatology in Sebring and Winter Haven, FL. Schedule an appointment today at our Sebring, FL, office at (863) 385-7183 or our Winter Haven, FL, office at (863) 293-7546.