What Is Psoriasis?
Dr. Renee Snyder and her team of board-certified Austin, TX, dermatologists assist men and women with the treatment and ongoing management of psoriasis. Psoriasis is a chronic skin condition that occurs when the skin cells grow too rapidly. This causes flaky, red, silvery patches of skin that can become inflamed, itchy, scaly, and crusty. Normal skin cells turn over and shed about once per month or every 4 weeks. Sufferers of psoriasis have skin cells that grow and build up quickly and form what is known as plaques. They can range in size and location on the body, commonly forming on the elbows, hands, knees, scalp, and lower back. There is no permanent cure for psoriasis; however, there are numerous treatments that can keep the condition from flaring up.
What Causes Psoriasis?
The exact cause of psoriasis has not been identified. It is thought that it is triggered by the immune system overreacting, thus causing excessive inflammation and flaking. It is also believed that psoriasis can be inherited as approximately 1/3 of people who have psoriasis have one or more family members with the condition. Scientists believe that the interaction of certain genes can lead to psoriasis, but a patient must inherit this specific combination of genes in order for this to be the case. Symptoms can appear after triggers such as a stressful event, taking certain medications, illness, extreme temperatures, or a bad sunburn.
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Have questions or want to schedule an appointment? Contact us today to speak with a member of the Snyder Dermatology team. We’re here to address your concerns with compassionate and effective care.
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Having been a patient of Snyder Dermatology for over 10 years, they have consistently demonstrated professionalism, courtesy, and sensitivity to patient needs and concerns. Their staff and Dermatologists are highly trained and the best in the Healthcare industry. I wholeheartedly recommend them.
-Jim B.
Dr. Renee is great. She was very informative and addressed all my concerns with straightforward info and solutions all while respecting my conservative attitude about cosmetic procedures. I was very pleased with my visit and my end result!
-Bonnie S.
Everyone here was so helpful and kind. I haven’t had many Dermatologists who took my case seriously and they were so professional and thorough. I would definitely recommend this office to anyone!
-Brian C.
Board-Certified Dermatologists
MEET OUR DOCTORS
Snyder Dermatology is the premier practice for medical and cosmetic dermatology in Austin, TX. Centrally located, our dynamic team of board certified dermatologists focus on providing patients with the most advanced medical care and treatment options. Our practice is distinguished by our compassion, our desire to fully understand our patients’ needs, and our commitment to being good stewards in the communities where we live and work.
Symptoms of Psoriasis
The most common symptoms associated with psoriasis include raised, bright red patches of skin that are covered with loose and silvery scales. Plaques can also appear in the same area on both sides of the body, such as on both knees and/or both elbows. The scalp can experience anything from mild scaling to areas of thick, crusted plaques. Itching is a common symptom before flare-ups occur, especially when psoriatic patches appear in body folds such as under the buttocks or breasts. Bleeding can occur when scales are picked at or scraped. This is known as Auspitz’s sign. In addition, nails can appear pitted or discolored or even crumble and fall off. Some common symptoms associated with the varying types of psoriasis include:
Guttate psoriasis: Common symptoms include small, red spots that can appear all over most often after an illness.
Pustular psoriasis: Common symptoms include painful red, swollen skin with pus-filled bumps that can cover the palms and soles of the feet.
Inverse psoriasis: Common symptoms include smooth, red patches of skin that appear raw looking. Patches develop only where skin comes into contact with other skin, such as the armpits or genitals.
Erythrodermic psoriasis: Common symptoms include a burnt appearance on the skin and most of the body turning bright red as it can’t maintain a normal or regulated temperature. A person must seek medical care immediately since this condition can be life-threatening.
How to Treat Psoriasis
While there is no permanent cure for psoriasis, there are a variety of treatments available to help alleviate the condition, depending on the severity and type of psoriasis. Mild cases are often treated with prescription lotions, creams, and ointments. When the scalp is affected, shampoos, sprays, and oils can be used. Systemic medications are prescription drugs that are taken orally or by injection and work throughout the body. They are usually used for individuals with moderate to severe psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis. Biologic drugs, or “biologics,” are usually prescribed for moderate to severe psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis that has not responded to other treatments. They are given by injection or intravenous (IV) infusion. Advancements in laser therapy have proven useful in helping psoriasis patients. Using phototherapy to expose a patient’s skin to special, ultraviolet light helps reduce symptoms, as well as restore the skin to a normal-looking appearance.
Schedule a Consultation
Since psoriasis is not only painful but can also be embarrassing, making it difficult for some patients to live their day-to-day lives, it is crucial for a patient to see a dermatologist to understand how to manage the condition. We invite you to call our dermatology office today and make an appointment for your thorough consultation.