For many people, getting diagnosed with psoriasis causes mixed emotions. Although it is good to finally have an answer for your symptoms, it is also scary to find out that you have a chronic skin condition that will need lifetime management. Along with help from your dermatologist, this information for people who have recently been diagnosed with psoriasis can help you feel more informed and in control of your disease.
Psoriasis is an autoimmune disease.
With autoimmune diseases, the immune system mistakenly attacks a healthy part of the body. For example, type 1 diabetes, another autoimmune disease, occurs when the immune system attacks and destroys the pancreas. With psoriasis, the immune system attacks the skin and causes inflammation that appears in the form of red patches on the surface of the skin. Psoriasis is common in people who have other autoimmune diseases, such as type 1 diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, and lupus.
Psoriasis symptoms can involve more than the skin.
Although the most visible symptoms of psoriasis occur on the skin, there may be many other symptoms that are less visible. Psoriatic arthritis is a condition that appears in some psoriasis sufferers and causes severe joint pain and mobility issues. Psoriasis can also cause fever and fatigue.
There is no cure for psoriasis, but it can be managed.
Psoriasis cannot be cured, but there are many treatments that can help to manage the symptoms. From topical treatments to light therapy, biologics, and oral medications, your dermatologist has many different strategies he or she can use to help you get relief from your symptoms.
At Arlington Dermatology, our dermatologists are experienced in treating psoriasis and can help you find the best treatment plan for your needs. If you are experiencing symptoms of psoriasis or have been newly diagnosed, call [company-phone id=1].
