Psoriasis
Psoriasis is a common skin condition that causes recurring patches of red and scaly skin across various areas of the body, typically seen around the knees, scalp, and elbows. These patches are the result of cells that grow too quickly and gradually build up on the surface of the skin.
Causes and Contributing Factors
Although there is no exact cause of psoriasis, this condition has been categorized as an autoimmune disease that is usually influenced by the individual’s genetics.
Many men and women with psoriasis will experience chronic flare-ups of the condition. In many cases, psoriasis is heavily influenced by an underlying medical condition. Persons with any of the following conditions are more likely to encounter psoriasis:
- Type 2 diabetes
- Psoriatic arthritis
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
- Heart disease
Psoriasis Triggers
In addition to associated medical conditions, psoriasis can also be brought on by any number of other factors. These triggers are often unique to the individual and their lifestyle, and can significantly increase the frequency of the person’s psoriasis flare-ups.
Common psoriasis triggers include:
- Stress
- Changes in the weather, especially during cold and dry seasons
- Skin trauma
- Smoking
- Side effects from various medications
- Alcohol consumption
- Infections (strep throat, HIV, etc.)
Signs and Symptoms of Psoriasis
Each person can experience psoriasis in a different way. These differences can refer to the specific location of the condition, the size of the individual’s outbreaks, or the visual appearance of their psoriasis.
Symptoms that generally apply to a majority of our patients with psoriasis include:
- Inflammation of the skin
- Thick, scaly patches that look silvery or white in color
- Itchiness
- Soreness
- A burning sensation
- Stiffness within various joints
- Thick, pitted nails
- Cracked skin that may even bleed slightly
Types of Psoriasis
A patient’s unique symptoms will usually suggest what type of psoriasis that they suffer from. Recommended treatment is also highly dependent on this categorization, which can often be determined by a doctor upon evaluation of a small skin sample.
At Infinity Cellular Wellness, our specialists treat all types of this skin condition, which include:
- Plaque psoriasis (most common)
- Scalp psoriasis
- Nail psoriasis
- Pustular psoriasis
- Inverse psoriasis
- Guttate psoriasis
- Erythrodermic psoriasis
Seeking Diagnosis and Treatment
If you notice an abnormality in your skin that does not go away after several days, it is advised to seek the opinion of a medical professional. Chronic skin conditions like psoriasis will not simply go away on their own, and will require ongoing management to help avoid and limit the number of flare-ups that you encounter in your lifetime.
Stem Cell Therapy for Psoriasis
One of the most promising areas of research in psoriasis care is stem cell therapy. Since psoriasis is an autoimmune condition, the treatment focuses on “resetting” the immune system so it no longer attacks healthy skin cells. Stem cells have the unique ability to repair damaged tissues, regulate immune responses, and restore balance at the cellular level.
Potential benefits of stem cell therapy for psoriasis include:
- Reduction in the frequency and severity of flare-ups
- Repair of damaged skin tissue
- Regulation of the immune system to decrease autoimmune activity
- Long-term improvement in skin appearance and quality of life
Early studies suggest that stem cell therapy may provide longer-lasting relief compared to traditional medications, particularly for patients with moderate to severe psoriasis who have not responded well to other treatments.
Supportive Approaches
While stem cell therapy is at the forefront of advanced psoriasis treatment, supportive care can still play an important role in symptom management. Depending on your condition, your provider may also recommend:
- Lifestyle changes such as reducing stress, avoiding triggers, and maintaining healthy habits
- Moisturizers and topical care to reduce itching, dryness, and discomfort
- Balanced nutrition to support immune health and overall wellness
Schedule an Appointment
At Infinity Cellular Wellness, our specialists evaluate each patient’s unique condition and help determine whether stem cell therapy or a combination of treatments is the best path forward. Give us a call at 877-877-3339 to get started, or schedule a consultation through our secure online form. Our state of the art facility is just a 20 minute drive from San Diego.