Psoriasis can be an embarrassing condition that causes you to avoid activities that you normally enjoy. This chronic disease is uncomfortable and at times, unsightly, but can be effectively managed with psoriasis treatments at Alta Vista Dermatology. We offer psoriasis treatments and other advanced skin care procedures to the residents of Highlands Ranch and Denver, CO.
What is Psoriasis?
Psoriasis is a chronic skin disease that causes new skin cells to move to the surface in days rather than weeks, an abnormal length of time for this process. As a result, the skin cells build up and form thick patches of scaly skin that vary in size. These patches can appear on the scalp, neck, knees, hands, feet, or lower back. Anyone can develop psoriasis but it is most common among adults.
What Does Psoriasis Look Like?
Psoriasis can range from mild to severe. Mild psoriasis includes a rash. Moderate to severe psoriasis can include inflamed skin with red areas topped with silvery, loose, scaling skin. The skin becomes itchy with severe cases of psoriasis. Large patches may connect and cover a larger area such as the entire back, which can be uncomfortable. Some people may have swollen or tender joints and it can affect the fingernails and toenails. This type of psoriasis, arthritic psoriasis, causes the nails to change color and separate from the nail bed.
What Triggers Psoriasis?
It is important to know the triggers of psoriasis. They include stress, injury to the skin, infection, and medications. First-time occurrences or aggravation of existing psoriasis can be caused by stress. Sunburns, scratches, and vaccinations can be triggers. Lithium, Inderal, and other medications have triggered psoriasis. Strep throat, an earache, respiratory infection, tonsillitis, and bronchitis can lead to psoriasis flare-ups.
What Treatments Are Available for Psoriasis?
Thanks to ongoing research, there are many treatments available for psoriasis. It is important to work with a board-certified dermatologist to find a treatment that will work best for you and fit your lifestyle. There are benefits, drawbacks, and possible side effects with every treatment; however, we will explain all of them before tailoring a plan to meet your needs. The treatment we most often provide is laser light therapy with the Excimer laser.
What Treatments Are Available for Psoriasis?
Thanks to ongoing research, there are many treatments available for psoriasis. It is important to work with a board-certified dermatologist to find a treatment that will work best for you and fit your lifestyle. There are benefits, drawbacks, and possible side effects with every treatment; however, we will explain all of them before tailoring a plan to meet your needs. The treatment we most often provide is Excimer light treatment with the Pharos™ Excimer laser.
What is Excimer Laser Treatment for Psoriasis?
Excimer laser treatment uses ultraviolet light to treat psoriasis plaques. This treatment is carefully controlled and only targets the affected areas, leaving your healthy skin unharmed. This is the ideal psoriasis treatment because it is stronger than traditional light therapy, producing more significant results sooner. It is also effective for treating areas that are difficult to reach with other treatments, as the handheld device can be easily moved around the body. The Excimer laser treatment is comfortable and can provide a significant reduction in the appearance of psoriasis in just a few treatment sessions.
There is no need to suffer from psoriasis. The team at Alta Vista Dermatology can provide several different treatments, which we offer to those living in Denver, Highlands Ranch, and the surrounding areas of Colorado. We are happy to explain the symptoms of psoriasis and the treatments we provide. Please contact us to learn more or to schedule an appointment.
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