What is Psoriasis?
Dr. Vineet Mishra at Restoration Dermatology in Nashville and Franklin, TN provides expert care for patients managing psoriasis. Psoriasis is a chronic skin disorder caused by accelerated skin cell growth. This leads to flaky, red, silvery patches that may become inflamed, itchy, scaly, and sometimes crusted. Normally, skin cells renew and shed every 4 weeks, but in psoriasis, cells accumulate rapidly, forming thick plaques. These plaques can appear anywhere on the body but commonly affect elbows, hands, knees, scalp, and lower back.
There are several types of psoriasis, with plaque psoriasis being the most common. While many cases are mild, some require ongoing treatment to control flare-ups. It is important to understand that psoriasis is not contagious and cannot be transmitted from person to person. The key to managing psoriasis lies in controlling symptoms to reduce flare frequency.
Psoriasis Treatment Options
Although there is no cure for psoriasis, various treatments can help manage the condition depending on its severity and type. Mild psoriasis may respond well to prescription creams, lotions, and ointments. Scalp psoriasis can be treated with medicated shampoos, sprays, and oils. For moderate to severe cases, systemic medications taken orally or by injection target the condition throughout the body, often used in patients with psoriatic arthritis as well. Additionally, advances in laser therapy and phototherapy, which uses controlled ultraviolet light exposure, have significantly improved outcomes for many patients.
Improve Your Psoriasis
Psoriasis can cause discomfort and affect daily activities. If you are struggling with symptoms, we encourage you to contact Restoration Dermatology for an evaluation. During your consultation, Dr. Mishra will assess your condition and design a customized treatment plan to help relieve your symptoms and enhance your quality of life.