Care Path: Finding Care

Finding a dermatologist is key to getting a correct diagnosis and developing an effective treatment plan for you. You can find a health care provider using the following:

• The National Psoriasis Foundation (NPF) Health Care Provider Directory.
• For a more personalized search, contact the NPF Patient Navigation Center.
• Your health insurance provider may have a directory of health care providers that take that insurance.

Here are some questions to ask a health care provider or their office staff to make sure they are a good match:

• Are you currently accepting new patients?
• Do you accept my health insurance?
• Do you have experience treating patients living with psoriasis or psoriatic arthritis?

Your appointment is your time so make sure you are prepared.

Psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis are chronic diseases (known together as psoriatic disease) related to the immune system. These diseases can start at any age. About 1 in 3 people living with psoriasis also have psoriatic arthritis. When you have psoriatic disease, your immune system is overactive and causes inflammation in your body. There may be visible signs of inflammation such as plaques or scales on the skin. The inflammation can also be less visible and can impact other organs and tissues in the body, such as your joints. A comorbidity is a disease or condition related to a health condition you have, such as psoriasis.

A health care provider will take several factors into consideration when making a diagnosis of psoriasis or psoriatic arthritis including:

• The appearance of the skin. (Psoriasis may look different depending on your skin color.)
• The location of psoriasis.
• Itch of the skin. (Psoriasis)
• A skin biopsy. (Psoriasis)
• Morning stiffness or stiffness after resting. (Psoriatic arthritis)
• Nail changes. (Psoriatic arthritis)
• Swelling of whole fingers or toes. (Psoriatic arthritis)
• Asymmetric joint symptoms. (Psoriatic arthritis)
• Enthesitis (pain and swelling in the area where the tendon or ligament connects to the bone). (Psoriatic arthritis)

Definition of psoriatic disease (psoriasis and PsA and comorbidities)

Factors towards diagnosis (psoriasis and PsA)

Having skin affected by psoriasis can be a sign of inflammation occurring in other parts of the body. This inflammation can contribute to comorbidities. A comorbidity is a disease or condition that is related to a health condition you have, such as psoriasis or psoriatic arthritis. Learn more about comorbidities and how to keep thriving with psoriatic disease.

It is important to have a health care team that works together to provide the best care for you. you may need to take a role in building an effective health care team. You can do this by mentioning other providers that are treating you, especially if they are prescribing any kind of medication or treatment for you. A simple question can go a long way in helping your providers work together and provide you with the very best care.

Here is a list of specialists that you may add to your health care team to manage your overall health or treat other health conditions you may have.

• Cardiologists specialize in cardiovascular (heart) disease.
• Dentists specialize in diseases that affect the teeth and gums.
• Dietitians specialize in the use of diet and nutrition to keep the body healthy.
• Endocrinologists specialize in diseases of the endocrine system, such as diabetes and thyroid disorders.
• Gastroenterologists specialize in conditions affecting the stomach and intestines such as inflammatory bowel disease which includes ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease.
• Mental health providers specialize in mental health conditions.
• Naturopathic doctors specialize in treating disease using special diets, herbs, vitamins, and massage before using conventional medicine such as surgery or synthetic medications.
• Occupational therapists teach skills and find ways to make daily tasks easier and can recommend assistive devices.
• Oncologists specialize in the diagnosis, treatment, and study of cancer.
• Ophthalmologists specialize in the structure, function, and diseases of the eye.
• Periodontists specialize in the prevention and treatment of gum disease as well as the treatment of oral inflammation.
• Physical therapists focus on improving your mobility, strength, and range of motion.
• Pharmacists dispense prescription medications and teach patients how to safely use medications and dietary supplements.

Approximately one-third of those who get psoriasis are under 18 years old when the disease first surfaces. Our Spot for Youth and Parents has what you and your children need: webinars about the disease and care; tips on communicating with teachers, friends and even bullies; and downloadable school resources. Plus, you'll find stories from young people around the country who are living and thriving with psoriatic disease.