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Estimated to impact more than 8 million Americans, psoriasis is a fairly common autoimmune disorder that can dramatically impact a person’s skin health. For many, this condition will lead to scaly and itchy patches of skin that are uncomfortable. However, it’s possible to find relief with the help of a skilled dermatologist. To help you recognize whether you have this skin condition—and seek beneficial treatment—here are a few important details to know about psoriasis.

Understanding Psoriasis

How Does Psoriasis Form?

Autoimmune disorders occur when the body’s immune system has an improper response to certain stimuli. With psoriasis, the immune system will rapidly produce excessive skin cells that build on one another. These skin cells lead to the formation of plaques—scaly patches that can form on various areas of the body such as the scalp, arms, neck, face, and feet.

Unlike some skin care conditions that cause rashes, psoriasis is not contagious. While anyone can develop the condition, dermatologists note that there are several triggers for psoriasis, including obesity, smoking, stress, vitamin D deficiency, and skin injuries.

What Are the Symptoms?

dermatologistThere are several different types of psoriasis, all of which can produce varying symptoms. The most common is known as plaque psoriasis, which causes inflamed patches on the skin. As skin cells accumulate, individuals experience increasing itchiness, flakiness, and redness. In many cases, the plaques will turn into a pale, silvery tone. Some with plaque psoriasis will also have an inverse form of the condition that is characterized by smooth, shiny, and red patches found under skin folds.

More common among children, guttate psoriasis produces pink spots that are thinner than plaques. Pustular psoriasis, on the other hand, results in localized blisters filled with pus on irritated areas of skin.

 

 

If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, talk to the caring professionals at Fortson Dermatology & Skin Care Center. As an experienced dermatologist serving the Anchorage, AK, community, Dr. Jayne Fortson can accurately diagnose skin disorders—such as psoriasis—and pinpoint potential triggers. To learn more about her skin care services, visit her online. To make an appointment with this dermatologist, call (907) 563-3204.

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