What to know about living with psoriasis

If you have a skin condition like psoriasis, T-shirt weather can be a real stressor. That’s why we want to share some common concerns and treatment options for psoriasis, so that you can feel your best and live life to the fullest.

What is psoriasis?

Psoriasis is an inflammatory disease believed to be caused by a combination of a person’s family history (genetics), immune system and certain environmental factors. It causes skin cells to grow too quickly and build up at the surface of the skin, usually in red, flaky patches. Psoriasis is a common skin condition that affects about 2%-3% of the U.S. population and around 60 million people worldwide.² It often first appears in adults between the ages of 20 and 30 but can flare up earlier or later on. Psoriasis is not contagious. It is most common in Caucasian people, but it can also occur in anyone with risk factors. Triggers can include stress, injury, infection, some medications and tobacco use.^{1, 2}

What does psoriasis look like?

Psoriasis can look like irritated patches of skin with thick, silvery scales known as plaques. These plaques usually form in defined patches on your torso, knees, elbows and scalp. They can make your skin feel itchy, irritable and even painful. Some people also have joint pain, which can be a sign of psoriatic arthritis.^{1, 2}

Some symptoms of psoriasis may be confused with eczema. Generally, psoriasis has thick and well-defined plaques that may or may not be itchy. With eczema, the irritated skin frequently feels itchy. Psoriasis and eczema can have some overlapping symptoms, and it is possible to have both, so you may want to talk with a board-certified dermatologist to come up with the best treatment plan.^3,4

Have a skin question? Members can start a review anytime, anywhere in three simple steps.

Explore online dermatology care

Psoriasis affects whole-body health

The effects of psoriasis are more than your eyes can see. It might increase your risk of other serious health issues, such as obesity, cardiovascular disease, diabetes and liver or kidney disease. There are times when your symptoms can be better, then worse, then better again.³ These unpredictable ups and downs can feel out of your control. For some, it can trigger feelings of anxiety, depression or lowered self-esteem that can interfere with social or physical activities. These physical and mental health risks make psoriasis more than a simple skin condition. That’s why your treatment for psoriasis should include whole-health support, so that you can feel and live like your best self.^1,2,4

Online psoriasis treatment

At Teladoc Health, we’ve made skincare more accessible so that you don’t have to wait weeks for an appointment. With a virtual consultation , you’ll upload and share images along with a description of your symptoms. A U.S. board-certified dermatologist will review them and return a customized treatment plan. Your psoriasis online doctor will even arrange for any prescriptions, if needed, so that you can start your treatment sooner. We’re here to help you get started today!

Start a Dermatology consult now

Teladoc Health cares for your whole family

Managing the health of your family, and yourself, can be tough but you don’t have to do it alone. Ready to get started? Connect with us through the Teladoc mobile app, online or by phone.

Wondering how we can help? Here are all the ways we can help you and your family live your healthiest lives.

Published July 3, 2023