Psoriasis Specialist
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John M. Humeniuk, MD, FRCP
Dermatologist located in Greenville, SC, Simpsonville, SC, and Greer, SC
Psoriasis often looks like inflamed patches of skin with bizarre-looking scales that may cause you to hide your skin. Experienced dermatologist John Humeniuk, MD, FRCP, treats patients in Greer, Simpsonville, and Greenville, South Carolina, who experience psoriasis flare-ups and can develop a plan to help you get back your smooth, clear skin. To make an appointment at John M. Humeniuk MD, LLC to discuss your psoriasis, call or request an appointment online today.
Psoriasis Q & A
What is psoriasis?
Psoriasis is a condition of your immune system that causes you to build up skin cells rapidly. The result is temporary areas of thick, scaly skin that sometimes cracks and bleeds.
The underlying skin appears red and inflamed, and many patients experience white or grey scales covering it. Psoriasis is common on the:
- Hands
- Feet
- Knees
- Elbows
- Neck
- Scalp
- Face
The condition is not contagious but is genetic. You may also be more likely to get it if you have other chronic conditions like diabetes, heart disease, or even anxiety.
What type of psoriasis do I have?
The three most common types of psoriasis are:
Plaque psoriasis
Plaque psoriasis is the most common type, accounting for about 80% of patients with the condition. It appears as inflamed, red patches of skin with silver scales.
Guttate psoriasis
This type of psoriasis is more common during childhood and appears as small, thick, pink spots. It usually appears on your torso, arms, or legs.
Inverse psoriasis
Inverse psoriasis often shows up in conjunction with another type of psoriasis. It appears as shiny, red areas of skin in areas where your body folds over, like your knees, armpits, and groin area.
Between 10 and 20% of patients with psoriasis eventually develop a painful condition called psoriatic arthritis. Arthritis is an inflammatory condition that causes swelling of the joints.
What are my psoriasis treatment options?
Dr. Humeniuk may prescribe topical medications and give you suggestions for healthy lifestyle changes to keep your skin clear.
Your diet, drinking habits, stress levels, and emotions can all play a role in your psoriasis flare-ups, so being mindful of these can help you avoid irritation.
In recent years, new treatments have proven to be highly effective at minimizing psoriasis flare-ups. Topical steroids and ultraviolet (UV) light therapy can reduce the appearance of your psoriasis plaques while relieving irritation.
Biologic medications target the cells and proteins in your immune system that cause psoriasis. These biologic drugs can provide long-lasting relief from psoriasis.
To keep your psoriasis flare-ups at bay, call John M. Humeniuk MD, LLC or request a consultation online today.
