Psoriasis is a chronic skin condition that produces itchy, red, scaly patches of skin. Psoriasis cannot be cured, but several effective treatments and therapies are available for reducing flare-ups and managing symptoms. The experienced providers at Atlanta Center for Dermatologic Diseases in Sandy Springs, Roswell, Alpharetta & Cumming, GA, treat psoriasis using combination therapies for maximum treatment effectiveness. 

Psoriasis Causes and Triggers

Psoriasis is an autoimmune disorder in which the immune system mistakenly prompts the growth of new skin cells before old cells are shed. The overproduction of new skin cells causes a build-up on the skin’s surface, which results in thick, scaly patches. The exact cause of psoriasis is not known, but genetics could play a role since individuals with a family history of the condition are more likely to develop it. 

The symptoms of psoriasis can persist for several weeks or months at a time, and then clear up for a while before flaring up again. Many factors can trigger a flare-up of symptoms. Common triggers include cold temperatures, certain types of medications, being under stress, or sustaining a skin injury. Smoking and drinking alcohol also tend to trigger psoriasis symptoms. In some cases, having another autoimmune disorder, such as rheumatoid arthritis, can lead to a flare-up as well. 

Symptoms of Psoriasis

Several different symptoms can develop when psoriasis flares up. As mentioned, symptoms might not always be present but do recur as the condition is chronic. Common symptoms of psoriasis include:

• Rash on the skin nails, or joints
• Dry, cracked skin that might bleed 
• Patches of thick, red, scaly skin
• Smalls pits or dents in the nails
• Stiff, swollen, or painful joints
• Sore or itchy skin 

Psoriasis Treatments and Therapies

Several effective methods are available for reducing psoriasis flare-ups and managing symptoms. The knowledgeable providers at our dermatology offices in Sandy Springs, Roswell, Alpharetta & Cumming, GA, develop custom psoriasis treatment plans based on the type of psoriasis, symptoms, and individual needs. 

Treatment could include a combination of therapies to maximize effectiveness. For example, topical therapies could be used in conjunction with other treatments to treat external symptoms like itching and redness while also slowing down the growth of new skin cells. Some of the therapies and methods commonly used to treat psoriasis include:

• Lifestyle modifications to limit exposure to psoriasis triggers 
• Topical ointments, creams, or lotions to reduce inflammation, itching, and other external symptoms 
• Retinoid medications with vitamin A to reduce certain symptoms and slow down the growth of new skin cells
• UV or light therapy to slow down skin cell growth and speed up healing
• Oral or injectable biologic medications to suppress the immune system and prevent overproduction of skin cells

Contact Us Today

If you are dealing with psoriasis, we can help. Schedule a consultation with one of our skilled providers to learn more about combination therapies for treating psoriasis by calling Atlanta Center for Dermatologic Diseases in Sandy Springs, Roswell, Alpharetta & Cumming, GA, at (404) 252-4333 for the office in Sandy Springs, GA, (770) 751-1133 for the office in Roswell, GA, (770) 664-5225 for the office in Alpharetta, GA, and (770) 844-1902 for the office in Cumming, GA.