Psoriasis Treatment in Bend, OR

Results vary depending on the type of treatment and severity of your psoriasis. With topical treatments, you might notice improvement in 2-4 weeks. Biologics typically show significant clearing within 3-4 months. Phototherapy usually requires 2-3 sessions per week for 2-3 months before achieving notable results. Remember that everyone responds differently to treatment, and we’ll monitor your progress closely to adjust your treatment plan as needed. We’ll take photos throughout your treatment journey to help track improvements that might be hard to notice day-to-day.

Common triggers include stress, skin injuries, certain medications, infections, cold weather, and alcohol consumption. We’ll help you identify your personal triggers through careful tracking and observation. Together, we’ll develop strategies to minimize flares, such as stress management techniques, skin protection methods, and lifestyle modifications. While we can’t prevent all flares, understanding and avoiding your triggers can significantly reduce their frequency and severity.

Psoriasis is a chronic condition, but treatment needs often change over time. Many patients cycle through periods of more and less intensive treatment. During clearer phases, we might reduce treatment frequency or switch to maintenance therapy. If you experience a flare, we can temporarily intensify treatment. Our goal is to find the minimum level of treatment that keeps your skin clear and comfortable. We’ll adjust your treatment plan based on your skin’s response and life circumstances.

Absolutely! While sun exposure and chlorine can affect psoriasis differently for each person, we don’t want your condition to limit your life. We’ll help you develop strategies to protect your skin during outdoor activities, such as using appropriate sunscreen and moisturizers. For swimming, we can recommend pre- and post-swim skin care routines. Some patients find that controlled light exposure or salt water helps improve their symptoms.  We’ll work with you to find ways to maintain an active lifestyle while managing your psoriasis effectively.

We understand that cost is a major concern, especially for long-term treatment. Many treatments, including biologics, are covered by insurance, and we work with several assistance programs. Our office staff can help verify your coverage and find financial assistance programs if needed. We’ll also consider cost when developing your treatment plan, starting with more affordable options when appropriate and escalating only if necessary. We’re committed to finding a treatment approach that’s both effective and financially sustainable for you.

Treating psoriasis in sensitive areas (face, genitals, skin folds) requires special care. We’ll prescribe appropriate medications specifically formulated for sensitive areas that provide relief without causing irritation. We’ll also teach you gentle skincare techniques and recommend products that are safe for these delicate areas. If you’re experiencing discomfort in sensitive areas, don’t be embarrassed to discuss it – we’re here to help you find safe, effective solutions.

This is a common concern, as psoriasis treatments can sometimes become less effective over time. If this happens, don’t worry – we have multiple treatment options available. We might adjust your current medication, combine treatments for better results, or switch to a different therapy entirely. We stay up-to-date with the latest treatment options and can modify your plan as needed. The key is to maintain open communication about how your treatment is working so we can make timely adjustments.

Living with psoriasis can be emotionally challenging. We understand that it affects more than just your skin – it can impact your self-esteem, relationships, and daily life. During your visits, feel free to discuss these concerns with us. We can recommend support groups, provide resources for managing stress, and if needed, refer you to mental health professionals who understand the psychological aspects of chronic skin conditions. Remember, many people successfully manage their psoriasis and lead full, active lives.

We’ll review your current skincare routine and recommend which products to keep or replace. Some over-the-counter products might irritate your skin or interfere with prescribed treatments. We’ll help you build a simple, effective skincare routine using gentle, psoriasis-friendly products. This might include specific cleansers, moisturizers, and bath products that complement your treatment plan. We can also recommend makeup products that provide coverage without irritating your skin.

Several lifestyle factors can influence psoriasis severity. Stress management through techniques like meditation or yoga can help reduce flares. Regular exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, and getting adequate sleep can also improve treatment outcomes. Some patients find that dietary changes, such as reducing alcohol and inflammatory foods, help their symptoms. We’ll discuss which lifestyle modifications might be most beneficial for your specific case and help you implement them gradually.