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When Should You See Your Dermatologist for Psoriasis?

Psoriasis is a chronic skin condition that requires ongoing management to keep symptoms under control. Without a proper diagnosis and treatment, psoriasis can cause repeated flare-ups of uncomfortable soreness, itching, burning, redness, and other dermatologic symptoms. If you’ve been diagnosed with psoriasis, you may see your doctor for routine checkups. However, there are times when you may need to make an extra call to the dermatologist to discuss your skin’s health.

  • When something new arises in the skin. People with moderate to severe psoriasis tend to get used to their normal symptoms and how to manage them. If something new arises, though, including minor frustrations such as an increase in red spots on the skin, more severe cracking or itching, or increased inflammation, a call should be made. Another “new” symptom is increased difficulty performing daily tasks due to joint pain. New or worsening symptoms could indicate that treatment needs to change.
  • Itching hasn’t improved. Itching is one of the most frustrating symptoms of psoriasis, according to many patients. While several home remedies can help control itching, the persistence of this symptom calls for evaluation. It could indicate that current treatment is not working efficiently and a new treatment needs to be prescribed. Examples include phototherapy or a change in topical medication.
  • Social events are being avoided. Psoriasis primarily affects the skin. However, there is an emotional component to this condition. Many people feel self-conscious about how their skin looks, especially during flareups. We’ve spent enough time distancing from each other in 2020; psoriasis should not be yet another reason to do so. If you’re feeling self-conscious about your skin, come see us. We’ll find the right approach to keep your psoriasis under control.
  • You’re going on a flight. In recent years, we’ve seen significant changes in air travel. For those who are on medications, especially topical products, taking a flight isn’t as easy as it could be. This is because tubes of topical creams may come in sizes that are too large to take on an airplane. Before flying, talk to your doctor about smaller quantities of medication or getting a copy of the prescription to present to TSA agents.
  • You’re interested in a new remedy for psoriasis. If you are already on a prescribed treatment plan for psoriasis, it is necessary to talk to your doctor if you’re considering making changes. This is relevant even for those who are looking at a natural remedy of some sort. Natural or not, new chemicals may not mix well with those in the current treatment protocol and may cause unnecessary irritation.

We take the health of our patients seriously. For more information on psoriasis and how to manage it well, contact us at 206-859-5777.


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