Have you been experiencing some skin issues lately? Like itchy, dry red patches that sometimes even bleed? If this is your situation, you may be suffering from psoriasis.
Psoriasis is one of the most common skin conditions that millions of people in the United States suffer from. Though it is incurable, thankfully, there are numerous treatment options to make living with the condition easier.
Getting to Know the Types of Psoriasis
Before making an appointment with your physician or a dermatologist, one of the best things to do is research the various types of psoriasis and their unique symptoms and properties. There are 6 main types of psoriasis:
– Plaque psoriasis
– Guttate psoriasis
– Inverse psoriasis
– Pustular psoriasis
– Erythrodermic psoriasis
– Nail psoriasis
Seeing a Dermatologist
If you believe you might have a type of psoriasis, consult your family doctor to find out whether a visit to a dermatologist is necessary. General practitioners and physicians do treat the condition, but seeing a specialist is always the best way to go.
It can be scary or uncomfortable to visit a dermatologist, but there is nothing difficult about the process, and this is one of the conditions that they are most used to diagnosing and treating.
So what kind of conversation will you need to have when you see a dermatologist suspecting that you have the condition? They will likely inquire about your symptoms, about how long you have been experiencing them, and the affected areas of your body. Then they will probably take a close look at the areas to determine whether you, in fact, have psoriasis. The good news is, most dermatologists are able to diagnose psoriasis without tests and samples.
Getting Treated
Unfortunately, there is no cure for psoriasis, but finding relief is fairly easy. Dermatologists can prescribe the most effective topical medication, which is often rich in Vitamin D and aids in shedding the dead skin accumulated in affected areas. Ointments are not the only option, and they come in a wide range of strengths, so your specialist will determine the best option depending on the severity of your condition.
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