Psoriasis is a chronic skin condition that impacts over 8 million Americans. Unfortunately, there is no cure for this condition. However, there are many treatment options to help control symptoms. August is Psoriasis Awareness Month, and we aim to bring more understanding and acceptance into the community for this condition.
What is Psoriasis?
Psoriasis is a chronic skin disease caused by an immune response in the body. Skin cell production is greatly increased, causes skin cells to build up quickly and create red or discolored, scaly, itchy patches on the skin. Despite common misconceptions, psoriasis IS NOT contagious. You can’t catch it from somebody.
Five Types of Psoriasis
There are five types of psoriasis and it’s possible to have more than one type at a time, or in your lifetime. Treatment varies depending on the type of psoriasis and the location of it. The five types include:
- Plaque psoriasis
- Inverse psoriasis
- Erythrodermic psoriasis
- Pustular psoriasis
- Guttate psoriasis
Symptoms
Psoriasis causes red, brown, or purple patches on the skin. These patches can become thick and raised (known as plaques) and patients often experience itching, burning, stinging pain. Other symptoms include:
- Flaking of dead skin
- Pustule or blisters
- Dry skin that may crack or bleed
- Changes to nails
It’s important to note that psoriasis looks different on darker skin tones and the plaques may be much thicker as well.
Physical and Mental Impacts of Psoriasis
Psoriasis often appears on the hands, feet, knees, face, elbows, scalp, nails, and skin folds. But it can appear anywhere on the body. This can be an extremely difficult condition to live with because of the physical symptoms but there is also a significant mental health impact that is often overlooked.
Unfortunately, there are some negative stigmas associated with this condition. People mistakenly believe that the condition is caused by poor hygiene, or that it is contagious. Neither of these things are true. But these beliefs lead people with psoriasis to live in fear and struggle to hide their condition. We hope that by helping people understand the condition, these negative stigmas might come to an end.
Psoriasis Treatment in Reston VA
If you are living with psoriasis, or believe you might have the conditions, it’s important to seek treatment from a qualified professional.
At Reston Dermatology and Cosmetic Center, we are proud to provide personalized, effective treatment that blends cutting edge science and artistry to give you the results you desire. Contact Reston Dermatology and Cosmetic Center today to schedule a consultation.