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    Psoriasis and Feet

    Published on January 26th, 2016

    Psoriasis is a skin condition that, due to fast turnover of skin cells, leaves white, dry patches of skin on your body. People can suffer from mild to severe psoriasis, with those that suffer from severe cases being affected in multiple areas, including their feet.

    Causes and Symptoms

    As an autoimmune disease, psoriasis affects those with weak immune systems worse, such as those with AIDS or cancer. Psoriasis can be aggravated by stress and is often genetic. Fortunately, it is rather easily diagnosed as the symptoms are the dry, red, itchy areas of skin that are known as psoriatic patches. They often crop up on the elbows, knees, and feet, but can be found elsewhere.

    To be safe, if you notice these patches on your feet, you should see a podiatrist, especially if home care, such as moisturizing, has not helped. Sometimes, symptoms of psoriasis can actually be athlete’s foot or something else, and vice versa. To confirm a psoriasis diagnosis, a podiatrist may take a sample of skin.

    Treatment

    In the event that you do have psoriasis, treatment depends on the severity of the condition. With mild forms, creams often do the trick. However, the more severe the disease, the more treatment you will likely need.

    Through you cannot prevent psoriasis, you can avoid certain triggers such as alcohol use and dry air.

    See Your Podiatrist

    If you start to notice patches of dry, red, itchy skin on your feet, contact a podiatrist. Psoriasis and feet, though a common combination for those combatting the condition, is not something you want to deal with. It is painful and treatable with the help of your podiatrist. Contact Alpine Foot Specialists!

    Courtesy of: American Podiatric Medical Association

    Call for an Appointment (847) 540-9949