Managing Your Psoriasis Symptoms

Scaly psoriasis patches can make you self-conscious about baring your skin. If you are having difficulty managing your psoriasis symptoms, our dermatologist can help.  Dr. Sheryl Miller in Scotia, NY, provides a wide range of medical and cosmetic dermatology services, including treatment and management of psoriasis. 

What You Need To Know About Psoriasis

Psoriasis is an autoimmune condition which causes your body to produce too many skin cells too fast. The sudden overabundance of skin cells produces the red, scaly, itchy patches of skin. These characteristic patches are the most common sign and symptom of psoriasis. 

There are several steps you can take to help limit a psoriasis outbreak. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, you should: 

• Try to avoid injuries to your skin, including cuts, blisters, or insect bites 
• Apply a high SPF sunscreen whenever you go outside, to avoid getting a sunburn  
• Apply a thick moisturizer twice daily, to avoid drying and cracking your skin 
• Try not to scratch your psoriasis patches 
• Apply a cold compress to psoriasis patches 
• Apply anti-itch medication to your psoriasis  
• Try to avoid substances which can potentially trigger a psoriasis breakout

For a helpful quiz and more information on psoriasis triggers, please visit the American Academy of Dermatology website by clicking here.   

If you suffer from mild psoriasis symptoms, you can try over the counter prescription bath treatments, shampoos, and moisturizing creams. For moderate to severe psoriasis symptoms, you should visit your dermatologist, who may recommend effective treatments like these:  

• Prescription strength topical steroid creams to control itching and slow skin cell growth  
• Laser therapy to help get rid of psoriasis patches 
• Prescription strength oral medications including cyclosporine and methotrexate, to reduce inflammation and lower skin cell production  
• Biologic drugs, which work to suppress an overactive immune system  
• Light therapy to get rid of psoriasis patches, including using natural light, phototherapy, or lasers 

Want To Know More?

To find out more about the signs, symptoms, treatment, and management of psoriasis, and how our dermatologist can help, call Dr. Sheryl Miller, board certified dermatologist in Scotia, NY. You can reach her in the office by calling (518) 536-3151, so call today.