Medical Dermatology
Psoriasis in Islamabad
Assessment and ongoing management
In plain terms
Understanding psoriasis
What it is
Psoriasis is skin renewing itself far too fast. Cells that should take about a month to reach the surface arrive in a few days and pile up as thick scale. The immune system drives it, which is why it is a long term condition rather than an infection.
Why it happens
It is inherited and then switched on by something, commonly a throat infection, a stressful stretch, an injury to the skin, smoking or certain medicines. It is not contagious and you cannot pass it to your family. Nothing you did caused it, which is worth saying because most people arrive believing otherwise.
What you might notice
Well defined thick plaques with silvery scale, typically on the elbows, knees, lower back and scalp. Nails that pit, thicken or lift away from the bed. Pinpoint bleeding if scale is picked off. Joint pain and morning stiffness in some people, which matters and should always be mentioned.
How it is treated
Limited disease is treated on the skin with the right strength of topical therapy used properly. Widespread or stubborn disease has phototherapy, tablets and biologic injections behind it. The choice depends on how much skin is involved, whether the joints are affected and your general health.
When to get it seen
If it is spreading, if your nails or joints are involved, or if it is affecting how you live rather than only how you look. Psoriasis carries links to blood pressure, cholesterol and diabetes, so a proper assessment looks beyond the skin.
Questions about psoriasis
How long before psoriasis shows a result?
Ongoing management. Skin is slow, and anyone quoting you a faster number is selling something.
Who will actually be treating me?
Associate Professor Dr. Lubna Rani Faysal. MBBS (Gold Medalist), FCPS (Dermatology), MHPE, 13 years in dermatology, and Associate Professor of Dermatology, Islamic International Medical College, Rawalpindi.
Do I need to be seen in clinic, or is video enough?
Send a description and a clear photograph on WhatsApp and she will tell you which. Anything needing close examination or a procedure has to be in clinic, tuesday – saturday, 4:00 – 7:00 pm at F8 Markaz, Islamabad.
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Book your psoriasis consultation
Tuesday – Saturday, 4:00 – 7:00 PM at F8 Markaz, Islamabad. Or ask first on WhatsApp at +92 370 549 7242.
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