When Should I See a Primary Care Physician About My Psoriasis?

If you've been diagnosed with psoriasis or suspect you may have it, you may be wondering when it's time to seek professional help. While some cases can be managed with drugstore creams and minor lifestyle changes, others require the expertise of a medical professional to prevent the symptoms from worsening.

Dr. Xiaobin Li recommends seeing a primary care physician when issues like red, scaly skin are severe or widespread, traditional treatments aren't working, or if you have joint pain in addition to skin symptoms. Call Everest Medspa to learn about psoriasis laser treatment near Wayne, PA. We can provide pictures of psoriasis to help you decide whether it's time for a consultation.

Recognizing psoriasis symptoms early

Psoriasis is an autoimmune disease that causes the body to produce too many skin cells. While symptoms vary from person to person, the most common include:

Red patches of skin covered with thick scales
Dry, cracked skin that may bleed
Itching, burning or soreness
Thickened or pitted nails
Stiff joints and swelling

These issues range from very mild to severe and often come and go in cycles. They can appear on almost any part of the body, including the scalp, face, hands, feet, elbows, and knees. Fortunately, hyperpigmentation treatment at Everest Medspa may be able to help.

Key signs you should see a primary care physician for psoriasis

If you experience any of the following psoriasis symptoms in Southeastern PA, see a doctor right away for evaluation and treatment:

Severe or widespread symptoms: Psoriasis can cover large areas of the body, making it difficult to manage on your own. A trained professional can prescribe stronger medications or suggest other options to bring relief.
Not responding to traditional treatments: Over-the-counter creams and ointments, along with lifestyle changes like stress management and a healthy diet, may not be enough for severe psoriasis. A medical provider can offer psoriasis laser treatment to manage symptoms.
Joint pain in addition to skin symptoms: Some people develop psoriatic arthritis, which causes joint pain and swelling. A doctor can provide prompt diagnosis and treatment to help prevent further joint damage.

If you're unsure whether you have this condition, a healthcare professional like Dr. Li can perform an evaluation and show pictures of psoriasis to help you understand your situation better.

Is psoriasis contagious?

One common misconception about psoriasis is that it can spread from one person to another. So, is psoriasis contagious? The truth is that psoriasis cannot be transmitted, even through skin-to-skin contact. It is a genetic condition that develops due to a combination of factors, including genetics, immune system dysfunction, and environmental triggers.

How can I find the best treatment for hyperpigmentation?

Thanks to advancements in aesthetic medicine, there are now many effective ways to manage psoriasis. For example, topical creams can reduce inflammation and hydrate red, scaly skin, while medications can slow down the production of skin cells and decrease joint pain.

At Everest Medspa, we may recommend laser treatment as one of the best treatments for hyperpigmentation. This noninvasive procedure uses a targeted beam of light to penetrate the skin and reduce unwanted symptoms.

Explore psoriasis laser treatment at Everest Medspa

If you or a loved one are living with dry or scaly skin in Wayne or Philadelphia, PA, know you are not alone. Seeking professional help from a doctor or medical spa can greatly improve your quality of life. Don't hesitate to schedule an appointment at Everest Medspa for personalized care. Dr. Xiaobin Li or a member of our experienced team can answer questions such as, "Is psoriasis contagious?", show pictures of psoriasis, and recommend treatment options for hyperpigmentation.