What is Psoriasis and How is it Treated?

What you need to know about psoriasis

Psoriasis is a genetic autoimmune disorder that looks like scaly, red patches on your scalp, elbows and knees. Usually certain Psoriasissubstances trigger flare ups and make skin cells grow at an abnormal rate, causing the psoriasis patches. Psoriasis can burn, itch or sting and can be extensive and unsightly. You can find relief from psoriasis by calling your dermatologists at South County Dermatology in Narragansett, Westerly, Barrington and East Greenwich, RI.

Psoriasis is classified according to how much of your body is affected and treatment varies acccordingly. For example:

Mild psoriasis--less than 3% of your body is affected, and treatment involves over-the-counter or prescription creams, shampoos and bath solutions.

Moderate psoriasis--between 3% and 10% of your body is affected, and over-the-counter treatments aren’t enough. Your Narragansett, Westerly, Barrington and East Greenwich dermatologists at South County Dermatology may recommend topical steroids and other treatments that slow skin cell growth. Light therapy also has some effectiveness, as well as laser therapy to reduce or eliminate psoriasis patches.

Severe psoriasis--over 10% of your body is affected. Your dermatologists at South County Dermatology may prescribe oral medications including methotrexate or cyclosporine to decrease skin cell production and reduce cellular inflammation. They may also recommend light therapy with either natural sunlight or phototherapy with UVB rays which reduce psoriasis patches.

These are just a few of the treatments available at South County Dermatology. For more about specific treatment medications please visit the South County Dermatology patient education page under skin conditions at http://www.southcountyriderm.com/library/4249/SkinConditions.html.

Psoriasis can be irritating and can affect your quality of life, but it doesn’t have to. If you think you might have psoriasis, get some relief. Call your dermatologists at South County Dermatology with four offices to serve your needs in East Greenwich, Narragansett, Westerly and Barrington, RI. Get some help for your psoriasis by calling today!

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