Psoriasis Treatment in the Florida Keys
What are the first signs of psoriasis?
The first signs that you notice when suffering from psoriasis can vary widely depending on the exact kind of psoriasis you are suffering from. Below are the different variations of psoriasis and the first signs that are typically associated with each:
Plaque Psoriasis Symptoms
- Appears anywhere on the body (including genitals and inside the mouth)
- Dry skin
- Red skin
- Raised skin patches
- Silver scales on the skin
- Pain in rash areas
Pustular Psoriasis Symptoms
- Appears on small areas (fingertips, feet, toes, hands)
- Red blistering
- Rashes that come and go
- Quick onset of symptoms
- Tenderness in rash areas
Inverse Psoriasis Symptoms
- Appears on the armpits, genitals, below your breasts, and groin
- Red skin in smooth patches
- Inflammation or swelling skin
- Irritation when sweating
- Irritation with rubbing
Guttate Psoriasis Symptoms
- Appears on the arms, legs, scalp, and forehead
- Scaly skin
- Small lesions on the skin
- Rash that appears after a bacterial infection (including strep throat)
Nail Psoriasis Symptoms
- Appears only on the toenails or fingernails
- Loose nails
- Discolored nails
- Nail pitting
- Nail crumbling
- Abnormal nail growth
Erythrodermic Psoriasis Symptoms
- Often appears on all or most of your body
- Peeling skin
- Red skin
- Itching skin
- Burning skin
Can psoriasis go away?
Unfortunately, there is no known cure for psoriasis. However, psoriasis can go into remission, meaning that all of the symptoms of psoriasis remain hidden and no longer affect the person with psoriasis. There are many ways that you can help keep your psoriasis under control and even in remission, simply by following some simple steps during your everyday life in conjunction with your dermatologist’s treatment plan. Depending on which kind of psoriasis you are experiencing and the level of severity, you may find some relief by following the below guidelines for keeping psoriasis in remission:
- Visit your dermatologist for psoriasis treatment and advice
- Follow your dermatologist’s instructions for treatment and speak up if you have any questions
- Keep track of your flare-ups and potential triggers
- Adjust your diet to incorporate anti-inflammatory foods
- Be aware of new triggers or symptoms and inform your dermatologist right away when you notice changes in your skin
In addition, there are certain things you can avoid in order to keep your psoriasis in remission long-term. These are listed below.
Things To Avoid If You Have Psoriasis
- Rough textures (clothing or bath towels)
- Stress
- Cigarette smoke
- Infections
- Illnesses
- Excessive sunlight
- Dry conditions
- Humid conditions
How do you stop psoriasis from spreading?
Psoriasis does not spread from one person to another because it is not contagious. However, it is possible for the condition to spread to new areas of your body–especially when psoriasis is not being correctly untreated. Depending on which kind of psoriasis you are suffering from, your rash and redness could appear in a number of areas of the body.
In most cases of plaque psoriasis, people notice their outbreaks occurring near the scalp, knees, or elbows. But psoriasis can spread throughout different areas of the body over time. The best way to keep your psoriasis under control and from spreading is to consult with your dermatologist. Under the care of a professional skin care provider, you’ll be able to determine the best solution for your particular skin condition and personal needs.
What happens if you leave psoriasis untreated?
When psoriasis goes untreated, it can cause chronic skin pain, scarring, and an overall unhealthy look and feel to your skin. Additionally, some kinds of psoriasis could also lead to more serious consequences. One type of psoriasis in particular called psoriatic arthritis is known for its more serious health issues when left untreated. Untreated psoriatic arthritis can cause joint damage and debilitating joint pain.
What foods trigger psoriasis flare-ups?
There are many foods that are known to irritate and trigger the symptoms of psoriasis. So, if you have been diagnosed with psoriasis, it’s important to learn what food items to stay away from to keep your symptoms under control. Visit Keys Dermatology to have a complete assessment of your symptoms and determine the best dieting adjustments for your situation. In general, you can follow the below guidelines.
Foods to Avoid With Psoriasis
Processed Foods
Many processed foods can trigger the symptoms of psoriasis. Try to avoid foods that are prepackaged, especially the following:
- Deli meat
- Canned vegetables
- Canned fruit
Gluten
Gluten–which can be found in many types of bread, noodles, and baked goods–can trigger the effects of psoriasis. If you’ve been diagnosed with psoriasis of any kind, you may need to avoid these gluten products:
- Rye
- Barley
- Pasta
- Malt
- Condiments
- Wheat
Certain Vegetables
While many vegetables are a part of a healthy diet, there are certain vegetables that could have negative effects for people who suffer from psoriasis. Avoid the following vegetables if you have been diagnosed with psoriasis:
- Eggplants
- Peppers
- Tomatoes
- Potatoes
Alcohol
All alcohols can have negative effects on the skin of people with psoriasis. Unless your dermatologist tells you otherwise, you may need to avoid alcohol to prevent a psoriasis flare-up. This includes:
- Wine
- Beer
- Liquor
How long does it take for psoriasis to clear up?
Psoriasis currently does not have a known cure, so it will not fully go away on its own. However, some people will go years without experiencing symptoms of psoriasis. This is known as psoriasis remission. Remissions can last for months or even years in some cases, but most people with psoriasis experience remission that lasts between 1 and 12 months.
How can I boost my immune system to fight psoriasis?
- Eat more leafy greens to help protect you from viruses and other psoriasis triggers
- Eat more turmeric or use it to create a mask (if your dermatologist recommends this)
- Exercise regularly, especially options that will not make you sweat as much
- Use natural oils instead of irritating alcohol-based sanitizers
What are the long term effects of psoriasis?
According to recent studies, psoriasis may not stop at skin discomfort and discolored or flaking appearance. Psoriasis may also lead to a number of other health complications if left untreated over time. These include:
- Psoriatic arthritis
- Stiff joints
- Heart attack
- Stroke
- Cardiovascular disease
What is treatment for psoriasis?
There are several treatment options for controlling the symptoms of psoriasis, which include:
- Topical creams for psoriasis
- Phytotherapies
- UVB psoriasis phototherapy
- Excimer psoriasis therapy
- Psoralen plus ultraviolet A (PUVA) psoriasis therapy
- Goeckerman psoriasis therapy
- Oral medications for psoriasis
- Injected medications for psoriasis
Schedule Your Psoriasis Consultation Today!
If you are experiencing symptoms of psoriasis, visit Keys Dermatology. Our providers are experienced, board-certified skin doctors and dermatologic surgeons who has been serving the Florida Keys community for over 25 years. Call 305.664.8828 to contact us today!
