Treating Mouth Symptoms from Psoriasis

A lesser-known skin condition that affects around 7.5 million individuals in the U.S., psoriasis is known for creating scaly, silvery spots or thickened red patches on the surface of one’s skin. This state is caused by the autoimmune disease contributing to skin cells reproducing faster than normal.

The body’s inability to shed these surplus skin cells fast enough causes these thickened patches or scaly spots, which are also called plaques, to develop. While genetic, psoriasis usually occurs through outbreaks that have been triggered by illness, stress, alcohol, nicotine, medication, or sometimes sunlight. The mouth can become affected and display symptoms if this issue spreads to that part of the body.

Compared to Standard Psoriasis

Often occurring on one’s torso or extremities, psoriasis can also cause lesions on the lips, tongue, and on the inside of the mouth. With some rare cases, the disease can also manifest as flaky regions and red spots on one’s lips before appearing on the body elsewhere. Because mouth-based psoriasis is so uncommon, patients typically must speak with their dermatologist or dentist to ensure their lesions are related to psoriasis and not something else. A full diagnosis is crucial to finding patients effective treatments.

In those rare cases of oral psoriasis, symptoms may manifest as red or yellow, whitish, or semitransparent tongue lesions. Sores can also appear on the mouth’s palate, the lips, or inside the cheeks—rarely are the gums ever affected.

How Can I Tell If I Have Oral Psoriasis?

For those who’ve received a psoriasis diagnosis and notice fissures, sores, or yellow patches inside their mouth, speak to a dermatologist or dentist. Notable symptoms can include the following:

·Redness of the mouth’s mucus membranes

·Red patches with white or red borders

·Peeling gums

·Ulcers or pustules

To get a definitive diagnosis, the doctor will likely schedule a biopsy for the patient. Then, treatment may include topical steroids or medications to help control the body's autoimmune responses.

When Symptoms Appear

Psoriasis patients who begin to experience flare-ups on the tongue and mouth should confer with their dentist or dermatologist to find the best solution for managing those symptoms. Treatments that psoriasis patients often use for standard flare-ups can also possibly help control oral psoriasis.

Antiseptic mouthwashes many also help soothe patients’ mouths while they experience symptoms. Make sure to speak with a professional before using medication against any form of psoriasis. Oral psoriasis may feel uncomfortable or even unattractive, but the symptoms can be kept to a minimum through consistent management and care.

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