Psoriasis

in Fargo, North Dakota

You’ve most likely heard of psoriasis and, if you live with it, you know how difficult it can be to manage. This is because psoriasis is one rare condition that can last for life and can’t be truly cured. This condition can cause a lot of distress and discomfort when it feels like there’s nothing that can be done, but Dr. Ness can recommend the best in treatments to keep your skin healthy and comfortable.

What is Psoriasis?

Psoriasis is a life-long skin condition that can come in many different forms but is most commonly experienced by patients as plaque psoriasis. This is indicated by thick, scaly patches on the skin that are whitish and extremely itchy. The most common locations for these patches are areas like the knees, elbows, lower back, and scalp, but can manifest in many other areas. They can be itchy, painful, and very large, leading to great discomfort for many psoriasis patients. In other manifestations of psoriasis, it can cause discomfort in the joints or affect your overall health and wellbeing.

What Causes Psoriasis?

Psoriasis is not contagious, and you cannot catch it from someone else. Instead, psoriasis is believed to be genetic and congenital, meaning you will most likely have it for life if you develop it while young. It also seems to run in immediate families, meaning you have a much higher chance of experiencing it if your family has a history of it. Psoriasis most often affects your immune system and its function within your normal skin regeneration mechanisms. Its characteristics are caused by excess production of skin cells which pile up on the skin, causing plaques to develop. This isn’t always constant, however, since certain things can trigger flare-ups which are unique to each patient.

How is Psoriasis Treated?

Psoriasis cannot be cured, and most patients live with psoriasis for their entire lives. However, treatment for psoriasis involves mitigating symptoms and preventing further flare-ups through many different techniques and medications. The first step in psoriasis treatment is a diagnosis from Dr. Ness who can determine the right course of action. Usually, a combination of treatments can be effective in reducing symptoms and treating plaques. This can include topical medications like corticosteroids or retinoids, oral medications like methotrexate or biologics, or laser treatment using UVB therapy with the XTRAC excimer system.

XTRAC Excimer laser treatment is one of the safest and most effective treatments for psoriasis and avoids the unpleasant side effects of some oral medications. Our XTRAC Excimer laser also reduces the need for topical medications, making your at-home treatment regimen simpler.

Along with these treatment options, it’s also important to monitor factors that can cause flare-ups and try to avoid these as part of your lifestyle.

Psoriasis Management

Although medications and treatments can help relieve symptoms that come with psoriasis, it’s important to understand that you will need to manage your skin to prevent further outbreaks. Some of the most common steps to take in alleviating your skin include avoiding damaging your skin through injury or sun exposure, as these can cause new plaques to form. It’s also important to ensure that your affected skin has the moisture and nutrients it needs, as well as avoiding irritation from scratching or itching. You should also be sure to regularly see Dr. Ness to assess whether your psoriasis is affecting other health concerns.

Schedule A Consultation

Although psoriasis can be an uncomfortable part of life, Fargo Dermatology can help mitigate your symptoms and keep your skin healthy. To discuss your psoriasis treatment options, contact our office to schedule a consultation with Dr. Ness or book directly online.