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Psoriasis - When To Call a Doctor

Call your doctor if you have symptoms of psoriasis, such as:

  • Bright red areas of raised patches (plaques) that are covered with loose, silvery, scaling skin.
  • Thick, crusted patches on the scalp.
  • Tiny pits or yellowish discoloration in the nails, separation of the nail from the skin, or buildup of skin debris under the nail.
  • Signs of developing bacterial infection. These include:
    • Increased pain, swelling, redness, tenderness, or heat.
    • Red streaks extending from the area.
    • A discharge of pus.
    • Fever of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher with no other cause.

If you are currently being treated for psoriasis, call your doctor if you:

Recommended Related to Psoriasis

Seven Psoriasis Triggers

While the underlying cause of psoriasis stems from your body's immune system, certain triggers can make symptoms worse or cause flare-ups. These psoriasis triggers include: Cold and dry weather. Such weather can dry out your skin, which makes the chances of having a flare-up worse. In contrast, hot, sunny weather appears to help control the symptoms of psoriasis in most people. Stress. Having psoriasis can itself cause stress, and patients often report that outbreaks of symptoms...

Read the Seven Psoriasis Triggers article > >

  • Have severe and widespread psoriasis and your skin is more irritated or inflamed than usual, especially if you have another illness.
  • Are taking medicine for psoriasis and have serious side effects, such as vomiting, bloody diarrhea, chills, or fever.

Watchful Waiting

If you have symptoms of psoriasis, talk to your doctor, because treatment when symptoms are first noticed may help stop the condition from progressing.

Who To See

Health professionals who can diagnose and treat psoriasis include:

To prepare for your appointment, see the topic Making the Most of Your Appointment.

Next Article:

WebMD Medical Reference from Healthwise

Last Updated: January 13, 2010
This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information.

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