About psoriasis
Do you think that you may be suffering from psoriasis? If so, you are not alone. Psoriasis impacts about 2.2% of the population of the United States- over 7.5 million people in total. It is the most prevalent autoimmune disease in the country.
Psoriasis is characterized by the rapid production of skin cells in certain places on the body. Since the skin cells are created much more quickly than normal, they pile up on the surface of the skin, causing raised or scaly patches.
Psoriasis is not contagious, but doctors are not exactly sure why it develops. It is related to the immune system- in a person with psoriasis, the immune system attacks the body’s skin cells. Psoriasis runs in families, and it can also be triggered by factors like stress, certain types of infections, skin injuries, medications, weather, diet, and more. Over time, you may come to learn what certain triggers cause your flare ups of psoriasis- so you can manage and avoid them accordingly.
Psoriasis symptoms
The exact symptoms of psoriasis may vary depending on which type of the disease you have. Some of the more common symptoms include:
- Patches of thick, raised skin
- A dry, thin, silvery white coating over raised patches of skin
- Small, scaly pink bumps that develop all over the surface of the skin
- Dents or discoloration of the fingernails
- Discolored or crumbling fingernails
It is not necessary to have all of these symptoms to be diagnosed with psoriasis. Accordingly, it is possible to have psoriasis even if you have different symptoms than those listed here. If you are in doubt, you should see your dermatologist for an evaluation.
Psoriasis cannot be cured, but it can often be well managed with medication and lifestyle changes. Your dermatologist can recommend the optimal form of treatment based on his or her evaluation of your specific case of psoriasis.
Confirming a diagnosis of psoriasis
If you are located in or around the Charlotte NC area, consider making an appointment with the team at Metrolina Dermatology to review your symptoms and help determine whether or not you are suffering from psoriasis. In fact, Metrolina Dermatology can help you with all of your skin care needs.
South Charlotte dermatologist and Fellowship trained Mohs surgeon Dr. Haberle and her team are known as experts in all fields of dermatology, including surgical, medical, and cosmetic skin care. In addition to diagnosing your psoriasis or other skin condition, you can have your annual skin check up, your skin cancer screening, and simple procedures or cosmetic treatments all in one place.
Call Metrolina Dermatology today to learn more about their available services and to schedule your initial appointment.
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