According to a 2021 study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association, more than 7,000,000 people over 20 years old have psoriasis. Currently, there is no cure for this troublesome skin condition, and our goal of treatment at Advanced Desert Dermatology in Peoria, AZ, is to manage the severity and frequency of your symptoms. Dr. Vernon Mackey works with people in the Peoria, AZ, area who have psoriasis to find the combination of treatments to best manage their symptoms.
Types of Psoriasis
The majority of people in the Peoria, AZ, area have plaque psoriasis which is characterized by areas of inflamed red skin that has a distinctive white, flakey surface. The affected area may be slightly raised. Plaque psoriasis most often occurs on the lower back, knees, scalp, and elbows. Guttate psoriasis is less common than plaque psoriasis, and it is characterized by small red dots on the torso, legs, and arms. The other three types of psoriasis are rare, including inverse psoriasis, erythrodermic psoriasis, and pustular psoriasis. Treatment for each type of psoriasis is primarily based on the severity and outcomes of previous treatments.
Mild to Moderate Psoriasis
Mild to moderate psoriasis typically responds well to topical treatments. Dr. Mackey may recommend ointments and creams that contain steroids to soothe your skin. Natural bath additives, such as oatmeal, apple cider vinegar, Epsom salts, and Dead Sea salts, may help. Dr. Mackey may also recommend that you use a heavier moisturizer to soothe and protect your skin. If you have scalp psoriasis, speak with Dr. Mackey about special haircare products for the condition.
Moderate to Severe Psoriasis
Mild to moderate psoriasis can be managed with phototherapy and medication injections, such as Humira and Enbrel. The injections are also beneficial for people who have psoriatic arthritis. Speak with Dr. Mackey about any known side effects of the injections.
Severe and Disabling Psoriasis
If you have severe or debilitating psoriasis, a systemic treatment offers the best outcomes. Dr. Mackey may prescribe oral medication or injections. Methotrexate works within approximately six weeks. Systemic medications require routine bloodwork to check for any unwanted side effects.
Lifestyle Changes to Manage Psoriasis Symptoms
Making some lifestyle changes may help to manage your psoriasis symptoms. Dr. Mackey recommends that his patients:
- Quit smoking
- Minimize alcohol consumption
- Stay active and close to your ideal weight
- Focus on eating nutritious meals
Are you looking for ways to manage your psoriasis symptoms? Learn about psoriasis treatments for Peoria, AZ, residents at Advanced Desert Dermatology. Call us today at (623) 977-6700 to schedule an appointment with Dr. Mackey at our Peoria, AZ, office.