Psoriasis

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1. What is Psoriasis?
2. Symptoms of Psoriasis
3. Diagnosis and Treatment for Psoriasis
4. Schedule an Appointment

Psoriasis is a common condition that causes uncomfortable, dry, and irritated patches of skin. The condition can also affect the nails, resulting in crumbling, discoloration, and separation from the nail bed. As an experienced dermatologist, Dr. Liz Damstetter can help with a range of effective psoriasis treatment options. Patients in Glenview Illinois and the surrounding area can turn to Reserve Dermatology for compassionate and friendly care.

What is Psoriasis?

Psoriasis is a chronic, systemic inflammatory condition that leads to an overactive immune response in the skin that causes skin cells to build up in patches referred to as plaques. These plaques are commonly scaly, itchy, and dry. In addition, some patients may suffer from nail psoriasis, which causes issues like crumbling or separating nails.

Psoriasis is believed to be an immune system disorder and is very common. The condition is considered chronic, affecting patients long-term despite cycles of flare-ups and remission.

Symptoms of Psoriasis

Psoriasis symptoms can vary from patient to patient. However, the most common symptoms are patches of skin that are red and covered in thick scales. These patches may also itch, burn, or bleed. Children with psoriasis may have smaller scaling spots. It is also possible for patients to develop swelling or stiffness in the joints. Psoriasis most commonly affects the lower back, elbows, knees, legs, feet, palms, face, or scalp. It is typical for psoriasis patients to experience periodic flare-ups, which can last several weeks or months, followed by periods of remission.

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“I had a recent visit to Dr Damstetter’s clinic and would like to share my experience. I am a Navy vet(corpsman) and usually get seen at the VA but since we don’t have a Derm provider right now, I was fortunately sent out to her clinic to be evaluated. It’s a nice clinic in a nice area and was relatively easy to find. A pleasant Ms. Nancy at the front desk was helpful in completing the check-in process. Easy day. I did not have to wait long and was soon met by Dr. Damstetter’s assistant, who for classified reasons I will refer to as “Agent 8”. I am sure if she gets tired of providing excellent medical care, her slick-ninja skillset could get her a job with the CIA or MI6 maybe. Short story long, Agent 8 brought me back to the patient area, where I was introduced to Dr Damstetter, who was all the things you would want in a doctor: a knowledgeable provider with a great bedside manner. She gave me a thorough exam which did end up showing that I needed a minor procedure. No worries. I felt well taken care of throughout my visit. No one likes to have to see the doctor, but if you have a dermatological concern, this is a good place with good people who did great by me, and I am thankful to have been sent here.”

“Dr. Liz is truly the best dermatologist I’ve ever been to. She is attentive, kind, and genuinely cares about her patients and their overall skin health. I can not recommend her enough!!!”

“Wonderful experience here! The doctor took the time to educate me on a variety of cosmetic options and gave her candid opinion resulting in just the right amount of cosmetic adjustments! Her staff was delightful and attentive! I would highly recommend for general derm needs and cosmetic adjustments.”

“Dr. Damstetter was the first dermatologist I trusted to do my Botox. She is both knowledgeable and professional and did a fantastic job. I will be using her for any and all of my future needs.”

Symptoms of Nail Psoriasis

Some patients may experience psoriasis symptoms in the nails. This includes abnormal nail growth, discoloration, and pitting. The nails can become crumbly or separate from the nail bed as well.

Common Psoriasis Triggers

Psoriasis flares are commonly triggered by environmental factors. Some common triggers include:

• Infections
• Cold or dry weather
• Skin injuries
• Stress
• Smoking or exposure to secondhand smoke
• Alcohol
• Medication side effects

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Liz Damstetter, MD

Board-Certified Dermatologist

Meet the Doctor

Diagnosis and Treatment for Psoriasis

A psoriasis diagnosis begins with a visual examination of the skin. Dr. Damstetter will also ask questions about your personal or family health history to help determine whether you are facing psoriasis. If necessary, a small skin sample may be taken for a biopsy to rule out other conditions.

There are multiple treatment options available for psoriasis patients. Corticosteroids are the most common treatment. Corticosteroid ointments, creams, gels, foams, sprays, or shampoos are available depending on your needs, preferences, and location of the psoriasis plaques. Dr. Damstetter may also prescribe options including vitamin D analogues (synthetic vitamin D), coal tar products, or calcineurin inhibitors, which can slow skin cell growth to prevent build-up. Retinoids or salicylic acid treatments can also be beneficial to exfoliate the excess skin cells and reduce scaling. A number of systemic options, including pills and injectables, are currently available and FDA-approved to combat stubborn or extensive psoriasis. Finally, light therapy may be a good option for some patients.

The best treatment option for you will vary depending on the type of psoriasis you face, your response to previous treatments, and more.

Schedule an Appointment

To learn more about psoriasis treatment, schedule an appointment with Dr. Damstetter. Call Reserve Dermatology in Glenview, IL or contact us online.