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What is psoriasis, and what are the common treatment options?
General Medicine
Question #5308
46 days ago
25

What is psoriasis, and what are the common treatment options? - #5308

Anonymously

I've noticed red, scaly patches on my skin, and my dermatologist mentioned it might be psoriasis. I'm eager to learn more about this condition and how to manage it. What exactly is psoriasis, and what causes this chronic skin condition? Are there different types of psoriasis, and how do they manifest on the skin? What are common triggers—does stress, certain medications, or infections play a role in flare-ups? How is psoriasis diagnosed—do doctors perform skin biopsies or rely on visual examinations? What treatment options are available—do topical treatments, phototherapy, or systemic medications offer relief? Also, can lifestyle changes, such as diet modifications or stress management, help in managing psoriasis symptoms?

Psoriasis
Skin condition
Chronic skin disease
Psoriasis treatment
Dermatology
Skin health
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Doctors’ responses

Dr. Evgeny Arsentev
I am a highly qualified medical professional with over 15 years of experience in General Medicine. My expertise spans diagnosing and treating a wide range of conditions, providing evidence-based care, and mentoring junior doctors. I am dedicated to ensuring patient well-being through a combination of clinical skills and compassionate care.
45 days ago
Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune condition that causes the rapid growth of skin cells, resulting in thick, scaly patches. It occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy skin cells, leading to inflammation. There are several types of psoriasis, with the most common being plaque psoriasis, which presents as red, inflamed skin with silvery scales. Other types, such as guttate psoriasis or pustular psoriasis, have different patterns but are also caused by immune system dysfunction. Common triggers for psoriasis flare-ups include stress, infections, certain medications (like beta-blockers), and even changes in the weather. Psoriasis is typically diagnosed through a visual examination, but in some cases, a skin biopsy might be done to confirm the diagnosis. Treatment options include topical treatments like corticosteroids and vitamin D analogs, phototherapy (light treatment), and systemic medications that work on the immune system, such as biologics. The right treatment will depend on the severity and type of psoriasis you have. Lifestyle changes, such as managing stress, avoiding triggers, and maintaining a healthy diet, can help reduce flare-ups and improve symptoms. I recommend continuing to work with your dermatologist to find the best approach for you.
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