Psoriasis Specialist

Medical Dermatology Associates of Chicago

Dermatology located in River North, Chicago, IL

If you regularly experience red, itchy skin, it may be due to psoriasis. There’s no cure for psoriasis, but with early diagnosis and treatment, it’s possible to prevent it from getting worse. At Medical Dermatology Associates of Chicago, the team of expert dermatologists specializes in the treatment of psoriasis. To book an appointment at the practice in the River North neighborhood of Chicago, Illinois, call the office or use the online scheduling feature today.

Psoriasis Q&A

What is psoriasis?

Psoriasis is a chronic disease that causes your skin to become red and itchy. It occurs when your skin regenerates faster than normal, making it hard and scaly.

Psoriasis varies in severity, but it usually flares up and then dies down. For example, if you have psoriasis, your skin might be very sore for several weeks or months and then slowly return to normal.

What are the symptoms of psoriasis?

Symptoms of psoriasis include:

Red patches of skin
Small spots of scaly skin
Dry, cracked skin that itches and bleeds
Thick or pitted fingernails

As your psoriasis gets worse, you might also experience stiff, swollen, or painful joints.

What are the types of psoriasis?

At Medical Dermatology Associates of Chicago, the team treats all types of psoriasis, including:

Plaque psoriasis
Nail psoriasis
Guttate psoriasis (affecting children and teens)
Inverse psoriasis
Pustular psoriasis (pus-filled lesions)
Psoriatic arthritis

The team also treats erythrodermic psoriasis, a type of psoriasis that covers your body with a red rash that burns intensely.

How is psoriasis treated?

The team at Medical Dermatology Associates of Chicago offers several types of psoriasis treatment, including prescription medication, topical ointments, and light therapy. Depending on your age, medical history, and the type of psoriasis you have, they might recommend:

Corticosteroids
Vitamin D analogues
Retinoids
Calcineurin inhibitors
Salicylic acid
Sunlight
UVB broadband
UVB narrowband

The goal of psoriasis treatment is to prevent your skin cells from growing so rapidly. When prescribed by a professional, treatment can reduce uncomfortable symptoms like itching and flaking, and improve the health of your skin.

If you have psoriasis, don’t wait to get treated. Make an appointment at Medical Dermatology Associates of Chicago by calling the office or scheduling one online today.