Psoriasis Specialist in Tysons Corner, Virginia
A psoriasis specialist is exactly what it sounds like! They are a healthcare provider who specializes in the skin condition known as psoriasis. Oftentimes, this is a dermatologist. These specialists diagnose and treat psoriasis with advanced knowledge that other medical professionals may not be able to offer.
What Is Psoriasis?
Psoriasis is a condition that is characterized by skin cell buildup. It results in plaques or scales and/or itchy, dry patches of skin that can burn and sting. The condition is considered to be an autoimmune disease.
Psoriasis affects all gender and races. Symptoms typically start between the ages of 15 to 25. However, they can occur earlier or later in life. Inflammation caused by psoriasis can affect other areas of the body and result in health conditions like psoriatic arthritis.
How Is Psoriasis Diagnosed?
Psoriasis predominantly presents itself in physical symptoms that are visible to the eye. In most cases, your specialist will only need to examine your skin, scalp, and nails to look for the tell-tale signs of this condition. They may also remove a small amount of skin to look at it under a microscope.
Additionally, your specialist will ask you questions relating to your symptoms and how long they’ve occurred. For example, they will ask if you struggle with other symptoms like joint pain. Also, they will want to know if there have been any significant lifestyle changes such as illness. Finally, they may acquire about your family’s history of psoriasis.
How Is Psoriasis Treated?
Treatment depends on the type of psoriasis you have and the severity of your symptoms. Everyone’s experience with psoriasis looks different, which is why it’s so important to work with a healthcare provider who understands the condition as well as how to personalize treatment to your needs.
Treatments for psoriasis include topical medications, light therapy, and lifestyle changes. Also, oral, injectable, and infusion prescription medication may be involved. Psoriasis is best managed when triggers for flare-ups are determined and addressed.
Can Psoriasis Be Cured?
Psoriasis currently cannot be cured. It is a long-term condition that can only be managed with the aforementioned treatments. Despite this, you can decrease psoriasis flares and reduce the effect psoriasis has on your life by consistently working with a psoriasis specialist.
Here’s How to Find the Best Psoriasis Specialist in Tysons Corner, Virginia
Psoriasis is easily managed when you enlist the help of a healthcare professional. There are many specialists that may be involved in your psoriasis care team. However, the National Psoriasis Foundation (NPF) recommends seeing a dermatologist first.
Here are easy tips on how to find the best psoriasis specialist in Tysons Corner, Virginia.
Choose a dermatologist as your psoriasis specialist.
Because the NPF officially recommends that people living with psoriasis visit a dermatologist, it’s best to start there when looking for a psoriasis specialist. A dermatologist is a doctor that specializes in conditions relating to your hair, skin, and nails, all of which psoriasis can affect.
There are many ways you can locate a dermatologist near you, either via a web search, asking friends and family members, or taking a look at dermatologists your insurance works with.
Ask for a referral.
It’s highly likely that your primary care provider (PCP) doesn’t specialize in psoriasis management and isn’t able to help you all that much when you’re experiencing symptoms. They can, however, give you a referral to a dermatologist who does specialize in this stubborn condition. During your next appointment, ask your PCP for a referral to a psoriasis specialist.
Join a support network.
Recent statistics estimate that more than 3% of adults in the United States are affected by psoriasis. That’s more than 7.5 million adults, so if you’ve been feeling alone, now you know you’re not. Join psoriasis support groups, either in person or online.
For a step in the right direction towards psoriasis management and finding a specialist, network with local people affected by psoriasis for help with this condition.
Read online reviews.
No matter how you find your psoriasis specialist, even if it’s by referral, make sure to research them and read their reviews. You’re looking for generally positive real-patient experiences with a provider to ensure that they can give you the exact care and experience you’re looking for.
Interview specialists before choosing the best one for you.
Once you’ve narrowed down your list to a few specialists, then take the next step and schedule a consultation with each one. This gives you the opportunity to get to know your provider and determine whether they’re the right choice for you. They’ll also be able to get a feel for your specific psoriasis case.
Don’t hesitate to treat this consultation as an interview. Ask the following questions to get to know them better before deciding on the best one for you:
- Have you treated psoriasis cases like mine?
- What is your experience managing psoriasis?
- Which treatment options would you recommend for me?
- What is the success rate of the treatments recommended for me? Side effects?
- How long do I need to follow this treatment plan?
Where Can I Get Treatment for Psoriasis Near Tysons Corner, Virginia?
Dr. Marjan Yousefi is a board-certified dermatologist who specializes in psoriasis care in nearby Arlington, Vienna. We offer a variety of treatments to help you manage psoriasis, so contact us today at 703-255-5070 to book a consultation and see how we can help you reduce your symptoms!
