Learn more about this autoimmune skin disorder and how to manage your symptoms.
You’ve been diagnosed with psoriasis. Now what? While there isn’t yet a cure for psoriasis, an autoimmune disorder that manifests red, scaly patches on the skin, our dermatologist Dr. Naga Meduri and the team at Modern Dermatology Atlanta in Woodstock, GA, also serving Canton and Acworth can offer up a variety of effective methods that can reduce the severity and number of flare-ups you experience. Here are some treatment options to get your psoriasis under control,
Lifestyle Modifications
Even with the proper medications in place, it’s still important to care for your skin properly to reduce flare-ups. When you come in for an evaluation, our skin doctor Dr. Meduri will determine your psoriasis triggers and provide you with helpful strategies to avoid them. Common tips for protecting your skin from psoriasis flare-ups include,
- Avoid sunburn and make sure you wear a full-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15 every day. Always reapply immediately after swimming or sweating.
- Do not scratch any psoriasis plaques that form, as scratching will only intensify the itch.
- Apply a cold compress to the areas to alleviate itching.
- Apply any topical itch relief cream or topical medications, as prescribed by your dermatologist.
- Apply a moisturizer daily.
Common psoriasis triggers include,
- Cold or hot temperatures
- Stress
- Trauma/injury to the skin
- Certain medications (e.g. beta-blockers; anti-malarial drugs)
- Infections
- Alcohol
- Smoking
Medications
Most of the time our dermatologist will prescribe a topical medication to apply directly to the skin to manage psoriasis plaques. Common topical medications include salicylic acid, retinoids, steroids and calcitriol.
More than one topical medication may be prescribed at the same time to boost efficacy. Sometimes oral medications such as biologics and retinoids are recommended to individuals dealing with more serious symptoms.
Therapy
Phototherapy or light therapy has also been known to improve symptoms of psoriasis. Light therapy is usually recommended for more persistent and unresponsive cases. Common light therapies for psoriasis include,
- PUVA (UV light combined with the medicine Psoralen)
- UVB light
- Narrow-band UVB therapy
Modern Dermatology Atlanta in Woodstock, GA, also serving Canton and Acworth is dedicated to helping you get skin problems under control. From psoriasis and eczema to severe acne or rosacea, our dermatologist Dr. Meduri has many ways to effectively treat or help you manage your symptoms for healthier-looking skin. To schedule an evaluation, call us at (770) 250-7199.
