Psoriasis is one of those skin conditions that unfortunately cause a lot of people to be embarrassed. It is an autoimmune disease skin condition that according to the National Psoriasis Foundation, affects 7.5 million people in the United States.
Psoriasis treatment is one of the most common reasons patients come see us at High Valley Dermatology.
You are clearly not alone with your skin condition, nor your embarrassment. There are 5 different types of psoriasis, but the most common one that ails people is called plaque psoriasis.
Symptoms of Plaque Psoriasis
The location of the raised, red, scaly patches that appear on the skin of those fighting plaque psoriasis can show anywhere on the body. Most of the time we find these areas near the elbows, knees and around the scalp. It is also common to find psoriasis patches inside the mouth, on the genitals, fingernails and toenails.
Though not everyone reports this, many people say these red, scaly areas itch and burn.
If you find red, scaly areas on your skin and are wondering if it is eczema or psoriasis, consider whether any of your family members have fought psoriasis in the past. About one-third of people with psoriasis have a family member with the disease, according to dermatologist Dr. Paul Yamauchi with the Dermatology and Skin Care Institute in Santa Monica, Calif.
Severity of Psoriasis
Most people have a mild form of psoriasis, but your dermatologist might classify your case as moderate or even severe if the patches of red skin cover a lot of your body. The severity is measured by dermatologists by looking at how much of your body it covers, but also how these red, scaly areas of skin are affecting your quality of life.
The location of psoriasis can have a direct impact on your quality of life if you have psoriasis in tender areas of your body. Psoriasis treatment will give you back that quality of life.
If you notice these patches growing on your body it is very important that you come in and let us take a look. Psoriasis can lead to other health effects.
Dangers of Untreated Psoriasis
- Hypertension
- Those with psoriasis and hypertension will require heavier medication to combat the high blood pressure. Blood pressure should be monitored closely because it can lead to strokes and heart attacks.
- Psoriatic Arthritis
- Often times psoriasis shows itself on knees, elbows and other joints. These joints can also develop psoriatic arthritis which can cause extreme stiffness and pain.
- High Cholesterol
- Psoriasis has also been proven to have a direct link to high cholesterol. As with hypertension, untreated high cholesterol can lead to extreme events like a heart attack, even in young patients.
- Diabetes
- Depression
- The chemical imbalance psoriasis can cause has been shown to have a link to clinical depression as well.
Psoriasis is more than just a skin condition that gives a person red, scaly skin patches. If left untreated many more extremely harmful and scary effects can take place. Does your family have a history of skin conditions and diseases? Have you noticed red and patchy areas on your skin lately?
The best thing you can do for yourself is to make an appointment and come in so we can diagnose which type of psoriasis you have and be able to give you the direct guidance and instruction on how to care for your skin. Remember, psoriasis is not contagious in anyway. You need to come see the dermatologist for your own health.
