Psoriasis is characterized by dry, red, scaly patches on the skin. This can affect any part of your body but commonly appear on the elbows, knees, scalp, chest, and back. Psoriasis can be managed and treated so that you can feel comfortable in your daily life. Dr. Vernon Mackey at Advanced Desert Dermatology in Peoria, AZ, can help you understand what might cause psoriasis and how it is treated.
What Causes Psoriasis?
It’s not fully known what exactly causes psoriasis, but it’s believed to be genetic. It’s also seen as a problem with the immune system that causes the skin to regenerate faster than normal. This causes dry and scaly patches to occur. There are also environmental triggers that may bring out an outbreak of psoriasis.
Your dermatologist in Peoria, AZ, can help you identify psoriasis triggers that may cause an outbreak. Psoriasis can be triggered by:
- Cold, dry weather
- Infections
- A skin injury
- Stress
- Exposure to secondhand smoke
- Heavy alcohol use
- Certain medications
- Rapid withdrawal of corticosteroids
Psoriasis can also be triggered by changes to the soaps and materials on your skin. While there is no known direct cause, your dermatologist can help you figure out which triggers to avoid and how you can fully manage to deal with your psoriasis.
The most common forms of treatments are corticosteroids, retinoids, salicylic acid, light therapy, and injected medications. Your dermatologist may recommend doing more than one treatment at a time for the best results. You may have to try different forms before you find the treatment plan that works best for you.
Contact Your Dermatologist Today!
Find out how you can start managing your psoriasis. Contact Dr. Vernon Mackey at Advanced Desert Dermatology in Peoria, AZ, to learn about psoriasis and how to deal with it. Call for more information and to schedule an appointment today at (623) 977-6700.