Psoriasis Specialist

Balcones Dermatology & Aesthetics

Dermatologist & Cosmetic Dermatologist located in Austin, TX

Psoriasis is one of the most prevalent autoimmune conditions in the United States, with over 7 million people suffering from the condition. David A. Bushore, MD, an experienced dermatologist at Balcones Dermatology and Aesthetics in Austin, Texas, provides patients of all ages with relief from the symptoms of psoriasis and its underlying causes. If psoriasis is affecting your quality of life, call the office or request an appointment online to take the first step toward healing.

Psoriasis Q & A

What is psoriasis?

Psoriasis is a skin disorder caused by a chronic autoimmune disease. From mild to severe cases, people with psoriasis typically have raised, red, scaly patches of skin, often around their elbows, knees, or scalp. Psoriasis can affect both skin and nails and often comes and goes. 

Some of the symptoms of psoriasis include:

 

  • Red patches of skin with thick, silvery-colored scales
  • Dry, cracked skin
  • Itching, bleeding, burning, or soreness around irritated areas
  • Thickened or pitted nails

 

Whether your psoriasis is mild or severe, treatment by a board-certified dermatologist can help.

What causes psoriasis?

Although the specific cause of psoriasis is largely unknown, it’s directly related to your immune system and genetics. You may be predisposed to flare-ups, and there may be triggers that cause symptoms to worsen. For people with psoriasis, their skin cells multiply at an abnormally rapid rate, which produces the characteristic rash-like symptoms.

Psoriasis affects both men and women equally and is most prevalent in Caucasians. Symptoms usually appear between the ages of 15 and 35, but the condition can develop anytime. Psoriasis cannot be spread through skin-to-skin contact.

When should I see a doctor for psoriasis?

Psoriasis symptoms may have been there for years and may go through periods of improvement. If your symptoms are affecting your quality of life, Dr. Bushore can help you find relief. Although there is no cure for psoriasis, you can manage the symptoms with medications and lifestyle changes.

The main goal of psoriasis medications is to keep the skin cells from multiplying too rapidly. Depending on the location and severity of your symptoms, Dr. Bushore may prescribe the following treatments:

 

  • Topical corticosteroids
  • Topical vitamin D
  • Topical keratolytics (scale lifters)
  • Topical immunomodulators/non-steroids/calcineurin inhibitors
  • Topical retinoids
  • Oral medications
  • Injectable medications
  • Narrow Band UVB (nbUVB) Phototherapy

 

Dr. Bushore and the compassionate team at Balcones Dermatology and Aesthetics want you to know you don’t have to suffer from psoriasis flare-ups. 

If you’re suffering from psoriasis and haven’t found relief, call the office for an appointment or request a visit online.