What Causes Psoriasis?

How your dermatologists in Massapequa, NY, can help with psoriasis

Psoriasis is caused by genetics. It is an autoimmune disease which causes your body to make excess skin cells abnormally fast. This rapid growth of skin cells causes scaly patches which are uncomfortable and unsightly. Your dermatologist can help you get relief from psoriasis.

Dr. David Kessler at Massapequa Dermatology in Massapequa, NY, provide a wide range of dermatology services, including diagnosis and treatment of psoriasis.

Psoriasis patches can develop on your scalp, elbows, knees, and other areas. These patches can be extremely itchy and uncomfortable. There are certain things can trigger psoriasis and make symptoms worse.

Common psoriasis triggers include:

• Stress
• Illness
• Skin injuries
• Excessive sun exposure
• Excessive cold or dry weather exposure
• Smoking and drinking alcohol
• Hormonal changes

Psoriasis is grouped into types, depending on how much of the body is affected. These types include:

Mild psoriasis, affecting less than 3% of your body–treatment of mild psoriasis may include:

• Over-the-counter or prescription moisturizing creams, shampoos, or bath treatments
• Topical steroid medications to reduce itch and slow skin cell growth
• Light or laser therapy to help eliminate psoriasis patches

Moderate psoriasis, affecting 3% to 10% of your body–treatment of moderate psoriasis may include:

• Prescription strength oral medications including cyclosporine and methotrexate, which lower production of skin cells and reduce inflammation
• Light therapy using natural sunlight, lasers, or phototherapy to help eliminate psoriasis patches

Severe psoriasis, affecting over 10% of your body–treatment of severe psoriasis may include:

• Biologic drugs which help to suppress the immune system
• Light therapy using natural sunlight, lasers, or phototherapy to help eliminate psoriasis patches

You don’t have to suffer from psoriasis when help is just a phone call away. To find out more about the causes, signs, symptoms, and treatment of psoriasis and how your dermatologist can help, talk with the experts. Call Dr. David Kessler at Massapequa Dermatology in Massapequa, NY. You can reach them in the office by calling (516) 799-1600, so call now.