Recognizing Psoriasis in Your Feet

Itchy, red feet that are scaly and even blistering can be the symptoms of several conditions including athlete’s foot, a fungal infection or a skin allergy. Another possibility, however, which is more serious than these other conditions, is psoriasis. August is Psoriasis Awareness Month and so we at Southern Maryland Foot & Ankle want to share some important information about this disease.

What’s Different About Psoriasis?

There are a number of elements about psoriasis that distinguish it from more common skin conditions. These include:

• Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune disease that can affect your entire body. In addition to making your skin itchy and red, it can affect your joints and lead to painful arthritis.

• Psoriasis is not contagious.

• Psoriasis on your skin will usually be characterized by a silvery-white or grayish scale on top of the irritation, although there are several different types of psoriasis with different appearances.

• Your nails may also be affected by psoriasis and can look discolored and pitted.

• Flare ups of psoriasis may be triggered by stress, certain medications, injury or infection.

• Unlike more mundane skin irritations, psoriasis has a genetic component.

• Psoriasis is often associated with other serious medical conditions, including heart disease, depression and diabetes.

If you have a persistent skin condition on your feet that isn’t going away or psoriasis runs in your family and you have questions, contact our Waldorf or Clinton office for an appointment. There are a number of treatment options available, as well as strategies for managing psoriasis. Our board certified foot and ankle surgeon, Dr. Larry Hotchkiss, can evaluate your condition and help determine the cause and best treatment for  whatever is causing your foot discomfort. Contact us at (301) 868-3899 or (301) 843-9581.