Understanding Psoriasis: Symptoms, Triggers & Treatment Options

Psoriasis is a common, chronic skin condition that affects over 8 million people in the U.S. It can cause physical discomfort and emotional stress — but with the right care, symptoms can be effectively managed.

At MDCS Dermatology, our team of board-certified dermatologists and licensed providers, including Toral Vaidya, MD, MPH, are experienced in diagnosing and treating psoriasis with advanced, personalized care.

What Is Psoriasis?

Psoriasis is an autoimmune skin disorder that causes skin cells to build up rapidly, leading to thick, scaly patches and inflammation. It can appear anywhere on the body but is most commonly seen on the:

• Scalp
  
  

• Elbows
  
  

• Knees
  
  

• Lower back
  
  

Psoriasis is not contagious, but it is a chronic condition that may flare up periodically throughout life.

Common Symptoms

Psoriasis symptoms can vary in severity and type. The most common form, plaque psoriasis, presents as:

• Red, raised patches of skin covered with silvery-white scales
  
  

• Dry, cracked skin that may bleed
  
  

• Itching, burning, or soreness
  
  

• Thickened, ridged, or pitted nails
  
  

• Joint pain (in psoriatic arthritis)
  
  

Common Psoriasis Triggers

Many people with psoriasis experience flare-ups triggered by certain factors. These may include:

• Stress
  
  

• Cold, dry weather
  
  

• Infections
  
  

• Skin injuries (cuts, scrapes, sunburn)
  
  

• Certain medications
  
  

• Alcohol consumption
  
  

• Smoking
  
  

Toral Vaidya, MD, MPH emphasizes the importance of identifying and avoiding personal triggers to help reduce flare-ups.

Treatment Options

While there’s no cure for psoriasis, many effective treatments can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life. At MDCS Dermatology, we offer comprehensive treatment options, including:

1. Topical Medications

First-line treatments often include:

• Corticosteroid creams
  
  

• Vitamin D analogs (calcipotriene)
  
  

• Coal tar and salicylic acid products
  
  

2. Phototherapy

Controlled exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light can slow skin cell growth and reduce scaling and inflammation.

3. Oral & Injectable Medications

For moderate to severe psoriasis, systemic medications such as:

• Biologic therapies (target specific parts of the immune system)
  
  

• Methotrexate
  
  

• Cyclosporine
  
  

• Oral retinoids
  
  

Your treatment plan will be tailored based on the severity of your condition, type of psoriasis, and overall health.

Take Control of Your Psoriasis with MDCS Dermatology

If you’re living with psoriasis, you don’t have to manage it alone. Our team at MDCS Dermatology is here to help you reduce flare-ups and improve your skin’s appearance and comfort. Toral Vaidya, MD, MPH and our providers will work with you to create a personalized treatment plan that works.