Psoriasis in Providence, UT
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Contact UsWhat is Psoriasis?
Dr. Travis James of Providence Dermatology in Providence, UT assists men and women with the treatment and continuing management of psoriasis. This persistent skin condition occurs when your skin cells grow too quickly. Psoriasis causes flaky, red, light-colored patches of skin that may be inflamed, itchy, scaly, and can scab. Normal skin cells cycle and slough off about every four weeks (once a month). For those with psoriasis, cells turnover about every 5 days but are slower to slough off leading to the scaling and plaques seen in psoriasis. They can range in diameter and location on your body, forming on the elbows, knees, hands, head, and lower back.
There are many different forms of psoriasis. One kind called plaque psoriasis is the most commonly experienced. While most cases of psoriasis are believed to be moderate, a few are difficult to cure and may require several therapies throughout a patient's life. It's also important to note that psoriasis isn't contagious and can't be spread from person to person. Once diagnosed, it is merely a matter of managing the symptoms so that flare-ups can be decreased.
What Are the Symptoms of Psoriasis?
Psoriasis presents with various symptoms that can affect different areas of the body. Common symptoms include:
- Elevated red patches: Bright, red patches of skin coated with loose, silver-colored scales are a hallmark of psoriasis.
- Symmetrical plaques: These may appear in the same location on both sides of the body, such as both knees or elbows.
- Scalp involvement: The scalp may show mild scaling or develop thick, crusted plaques.
- Itchiness: Itching often precedes flare-ups, particularly when patches form in skin folds, such as under the breasts or buttocks.
- Skin irritation (Auspitz's sign): Tiny areas of skin irritation can occur if scales are pulled up or scraped off.
These symptoms can vary in severity and may flare up periodically, causing discomfort or irritation.
What Are the Causes of Psoriasis?
The exact cause of psoriasis remains unknown. However, it is generally believed to involve an overactive immune response that triggers inflammation and excessive skin cell production, leading to flaking and scaling. Psoriasis may also have a genetic component, as about one-third of individuals with the condition have close family members who are also affected. Researchers theorize that specific genes may interact in a way that contributes to the development of psoriasis, but a particular combination of genes and exposure to a trigger is necessary. Symptoms often emerge after triggers such as stress, certain medications, dry weather, or severe sunburn.
What are the Treatment Options for Psoriasis?
Although there's no cure for psoriasis, you'll find an assortment of treatments available to manage the condition based on the severity and variety of psoriasis you are experiencing. Mild cases can be treated with prescription lotions, creams, and ointments. If your head is affected, shampoos, sprays, and oils may be used. Systemic medications are prescription medications that are taken orally or injected and work throughout the body. They are typically used for patients with moderate to severe psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis. Dr. James has received extensive training and is very comfortable in the use and monitoring of these medications and speaks at a national level regarding these medications.
Providence Dermatology Reviews
Dr James is just so incredible! He was so efficient and explained everything that was going on. He made me feel so welcome and he is just an amazing doctor! Could not recommend him or his practice enough!🙌🏻
Dr. James is very knowledgeable and had some simple and effective solutions for my son. His staff was kind and helpful. I was pleased with the outcome of our visit.
I was in a big rush because I had a class to get to, and the staff and doctor were super understanding! They were incredibly helpful and friendly. I’ve been to several dermatologist offices and this is the best, by far!
Dr. James entire office is awesome!. The front desk ladies were kind and friendly from the beginning. Dr. James and his nurse Beth were really nice and didn’t make me feel rushed or like I was taking up their time. Then the next week Dr. James actually came to the phone and talked to me personally last week when my BP skyrocketed on the day of the cyst removals. He then rescheduled me to come in a week later to get my surgery done which was today. Dr. James and his nurse Beth made me feel like I was the most special patient that was in that day! They reassured me through the entire procedure and told me to call if I had any questions or concerns after I got home. And you know what? I actually feel that I really could call them if I need to!
Best Dermatologist in the valley. My daughters had skin issue and no one could figure it out but Dr James did. My son was born preemie and had so many medical issues. Dr James was the first doctor to just sit with me and explain as much as he could even things outside of his field. His knowledge is vast in the medical field. When no one would help he did. I cannot recommend him enough!
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How Is Psoriasis Diagnosed?
Psoriasis is diagnosed based on the appearance and location of skin lesions, such as thick, red patches with silvery-white scales. During a physical exam, our team will assess affected areas and may ask questions about family history and symptom progression. While the diagnosis is often clinical, a skin biopsy may be performed to confirm psoriasis and rule out similar conditions like eczema or dermatitis. Blood tests may also be used to evaluate inflammation or check for related autoimmune conditions.
Learn More About Providence Dermatology
About UsWe Can Help Manage Your Psoriasis
Psoriasis may be embarrassing and uncomfortable, making it hard for you to complete simple tasks in your daily life. If that is the case, we encourage you to call Providence Dermatology whenever you get a chance. At a consultation with Dr. James, your condition can be assessed and a treatment plan personalized to make your symptoms tolerable and your quality of life even better.
Psoriasis FAQs
How do I know which psoriasis treatment option is right for me?
During your consultation at Providence Dermatology, Dr. James will evaluate the current state of your psoriasis to ensure you receive the ideal treatment. Once your personalized treatment plan has been created, he will also monitor you throughout your treatment process and make any necessary changes to your plan as needed. Your exact treatment may vary depending on your psoriasis's severity, type, and location.
Can stress trigger psoriasis?
Yes, stress can be a trigger for a psoriasis flare-up. Though it may not be the main cause, stress can worsen psoriasis. Managing your stress can be very beneficial for keeping your psoriasis at bay.
What does psoriasis look like?
Though it can look different from patient to patient, psoriasis typically looks like red or pink, scaly patches of skin. It can also be extremely itchy and cause flaking of the skin. During your appointment, Dr. James can evaluate your skin to determine if you have psoriasis and what course of treatment is ideal for you.