Psoriasis is a persistent, inflammatory skin condition that can cover large areas of the body. Approximately 7.5 million Americans suffer a form of this condition, and if you’re among them, Dr. Rachel R. Kushner Dermatology in Farmingdale and Franklin Square, New York, can help. The practice offers effective management of the unsightly and uncomfortable scaly patches associated with the condition. Call the location nearest you or schedule online to learn more about psoriasis and successful management.

Psoriasis Q & A

What is psoriasis?

Patches of reddened skin topped with white, flaky scales characterize psoriasis. Psoriasis commonly appears on the:

  • • Knees
  • • Torso
  • • Elbows

These are the most common places, but the skin condition can show up anywhere. In mild cases of psoriasis, just 3% of your body is affected. Moderate psoriasis involves 3-10% of your body, and severe psoriasis covers more than 10%.

Why do people develop psoriasis?

Psoriasis is an abnormality of skin cell production. When your skin produces new cells at an accelerated rate, you develop the associated lesions.

Usually, your skin sheds old skin cells and produces new skin cells every 30 days or so. When you have psoriasis, this process occurs at a rate of 3-4 days. Your body can’t shed old skin cells this quickly, so the new cells pile up on the old ones, creating the plaques.

Why some people develop this autoimmune disorder isn’t fully understood.

What are the symptoms of psoriasis?

Some people have a very mild case of psoriasis and don’t even realize they have it. Others have severe symptoms that disrupt their quality of life. When symptoms occur, they may include:

  • • Silver scaly patches
  • • Red, inflamed areas of skin
  • • Small, red spots
  • • Dry skin that can crack and bleed
  • • Nails that separate from the nail bed or develop pits
  • • Itching and sore skin

If you experience any of these symptoms, make an appointment at Dr. Rachel R. Kushner Dermatology for evaluation and diagnosis.

How do dermatologists treat psoriasis?

Psoriasis is a chronic condition that has no cure. However, you can manage symptoms and flare-ups, so you experience less disruption in your quality of life. Each area psoriasis affects may require a different treatment, depending on the sensitivity of the skin.

Dr. Rachel R. Kushner Dermatology recommends you avoid direct sun exposure and take baths in specialized salts for day-to-day minimization of symptoms.

You may also require prescription creams to treat the plaques and ease any itching or redness. Specialized light therapy can also help some cases of psoriasis. In severe cases, you may receive injectable and oral medications. These pharmaceutical treatments do have side effects, so your provider monitors your health and blood work regularly if you are on them.

For more information about psoriasis treatment, call Dr. Rachel R. Kushner Dermatology or book an appointment online.

TESTIMONIALS

What Our Clients Say

I've been a patient of Dr. Kushner for years now, but I just visited the Farmingdale office for the first time. I had an amazing experience: the office is clean, crisp, and brightly lit. The office staff are friendly and helpful. My wait was negligible and as always, Dr. Kushner addressed my issue in a professional and efficient manner. Highly recommend

Alison Schimel
Patient Review

I love the accommodations and the heart felt care this office provides there patients. I have a very hectic work and mom schedule and they have always been able to work around my schedule. (Especially weekend office hours) On my most stressfull days with my illness they have always attended with kindness and concern for my care. Pharmacies have always been called the minute you are done with your office visit. Which shows me a prompt and responsible treatment they provide to there patients.

Aida D
Patient Review

Dr Kushner has always been kind, dedicated and a fantastic doctor. I wouldn’t go anywhere else I took my husband who is in a wheelchair and cannot walk for a small procedure. Dr Kushner was patient and total professional with him Highly recommend Dr Kushner

Pat Casagrande
Patient Review

The lady at the front desk, as well at the PA/MA were so great! I was very pleased with the PA, she was so nice, very honest and professional, specially in this time and date we need more medical professionals like her. I love your practice so much that I brought my daughter there, and made an appointment for my mother too who lives in Queens. Keep up the good work!

Y J.
Patient Review

Love Doctor Kushner and her staff. I am a new patient and I was very pleased with my visit with her. Very patient, Dr Kushner took her time with me, I did not feel rushed. I love her pleasantness. Her staff is very pleasant and responsive to any questions you may have. Office is clean

Holitte Brown
Patient Review

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