Psoriasis patches can have a very similar appearance to rashes, and beyond their appearance, they can also cause other complications. Unlike most rashes, psoriasis is a chronic condition and flare-ups often return, the best way to manage the condition is with the help of our Pittsburgh, PA, skin care experts, Dr. David Horvath, Dr. Brian Horvath, and Dr. Gretchen Kreizenbeck of Horvath Dermatology Associates.
Psoriasis Symptoms
The skin patches brought on by psoriasis can become red, and inflamed, and cause itchiness and a burning feeling. Your skin can also become very dry and cause bleeding as it cracks.
For some, the patches can be just a few flakes of itchy skin while others may experience large patches with more severe symptoms. These vary from patient to patient and can depend on your body's reaction to triggers, which result in flare-ups.
These symptoms can manifest on any part of the body but they are more common on knees, elbows, back, and scalp.
What Causes Psoriasis
Psoriasis is an autoimmune disease that is most likely inherited, if you have a family history of the condition you are more at risk of suffering from it as well. It is autoimmune because it is a disease that can cause your body's immune system to overreact when exposed to certain triggers. This can result in your body producing too many skin cells, which leads to psoriasis symptoms.
Psoriasis Treatment in Pittsburgh, PA
There is currently no cure for psoriasis but treatment from your dermatologist focuses on providing relief from psoriasis symptoms. They can help reduce the impact of these symptoms as well as get flare-ups more under control. There are different types of medication and other therapies that your doctor can provide, but another important aspect of managing your psoriasis is to avoid triggers that cause flare-ups, for which your doctor can also prescribe advice.
For psoriasis relief, you can dial (412) 831-3300 to schedule a consultation in Pittsburgh, PA, with Drs. Horvath and Dr. Kreizenbeck of Horvath Dermatology Associates.