Psoriasis Treatment in Buffalo, NY | Lisa Ball, NP PLLC
Psoriasis is a chronic skin condition that can cause dry, scaly, and inflamed patches of skin. Symptoms can range from mild areas of irritation to more persistent or widespread flare-ups that can affect your comfort and quality of life.
At Lisa Ball, NP PLLC at the Neiman Dermatology Building in Buffalo, NY, we evaluate your skin and develop an individualized treatment plan based on the type and severity of your psoriasis.
What Is Psoriasis?
Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that causes skin cells to build up more quickly than normal. This can result in raised, dry, scaly patches on the skin.
Psoriasis can affect different areas of the body, including the elbows, knees, scalp, and trunk. The appearance and severity of psoriasis can vary from person to person, and symptoms may improve and flare up over time.
What Causes Psoriasis?
The exact cause of psoriasis is not fully understood. The condition involves the immune system and may be influenced by genetic and environmental factors.
Certain factors can trigger or worsen psoriasis flare-ups, including:
- Stress
- Skin injuries or irritation
- Infections
- Cold or dry weather
- Certain medications
- Smoking or alcohol use
Triggers vary from person to person, and not everyone with psoriasis will experience the same flare-ups.
What Are the Symptoms of Psoriasis?
Psoriasis can appear differently depending on the type and location of the condition. Common symptoms include:
- Raised patches: Psoriasis can cause areas of skin to become raised, thickened, and inflamed.
- Scaling: Affected skin may develop dry, silvery-white scales.
- Dry or cracked skin: Psoriasis can cause significant dryness and, in some cases, painful cracking.
- Itching or irritation: Affected areas may itch, burn, or feel uncomfortable.
- Nail changes: Some people with psoriasis develop changes in the appearance or texture of their fingernails or toenails.
Psoriasis Treatment Options
Psoriasis treatment depends on the type, location, and severity of your symptoms. Your provider may recommend a combination of treatments designed to reduce inflammation, improve the appearance of affected skin, and help control future flare-ups.
Treatment options may include:
- Prescription topical treatments
- Moisturizers and skincare recommendations
- Treatments to reduce inflammation and scaling
- Treatment plans for persistent or more extensive psoriasis
- Ongoing management to help control future flare-ups
Your provider can discuss the treatment options that may be appropriate for your individual condition and needs.
When Should You Seek Psoriasis Treatment?
You may benefit from professional psoriasis treatment if your symptoms are persistent, worsening, uncomfortable, affecting a large area of skin, or not improving with over-the-counter products.
Professional evaluation can also help determine whether another skin condition may be causing symptoms that resemble psoriasis.
Psoriasis Treatment in Buffalo, NY
At Lisa Ball, NP PLLC at the Neiman Dermatology Building, we provide personalized medical dermatology care for patients with a wide range of skin conditions, including psoriasis.
Our practice serves patients throughout Buffalo and surrounding communities, including Williamsville, Amherst, Clarence, Orchard Park, and East Aurora.
During your visit, your provider will evaluate your skin and discuss your symptoms and treatment options based on your individual needs.
Frequently Asked Questions About Psoriasis Treatment
Is psoriasis contagious?
No. Psoriasis is not contagious and cannot be spread through physical contact with another person.
What causes psoriasis flare-ups?
Psoriasis flare-ups can be associated with factors such as stress, skin irritation or injury, infections, weather changes, and certain medications. Triggers vary from person to person.
Can psoriasis go away?
Psoriasis is a chronic condition, but symptoms can improve significantly and may remain under control for periods of time. Treatment can help manage flare-ups and reduce symptoms.
Can psoriasis affect the scalp?
Yes. Psoriasis can affect the scalp and may cause areas of redness, scaling, itching, and irritation. Scalp psoriasis can sometimes extend beyond the hairline.
Can psoriasis affect the nails?
Yes. Psoriasis can cause changes to the fingernails or toenails, including pitting, discoloration, thickening, or separation from the nail bed.
When should I see a provider for psoriasis?
If you have persistent or recurring patches of dry, scaly, or inflamed skin, or if over-the-counter products are not providing enough improvement, a professional evaluation can help determine whether psoriasis or another skin condition may be responsible and whether additional treatment is appropriate.
