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Psoriasis is a chronic immune-mediated skin disease that affects approximately 7.5 million adults in the U.S.

The most common form of this autoimmune disease is plaque psoriasis. When an overactive immune system causes the body to produce skin cells too fast, these cells buildup on the surface of the skin, causing the development of thick, shiny, dry, scaly patches (commonly referred to as plaques) of various sizes on the skin. Psoriasis plaques usually form on the hands, feet, knees, elbows, and scalp. These plaques can cause pain, itching, stinging, and a burning sensation.

Although there is no cure for plaque psoriasis, the symptoms arise sporadically and there are lifestyle changes, home remedies and medical treatments available to reduce the severity of the symptoms and psoriasis flare ups. The best way to prevent psoriasis to avoid known triggers.

Many East Tennessee patients with complex chronic conditions such as Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, rheumatoid arthritis, or multiple sclerosis make the journey to into a larger city such as Knoxville, Chattanooga or Morristown regularly to receive biologic infusions. These infusions are typically given every 4-8 weeks, which means that patients not only spend more time in the car, but they often need to find dining options for breakfast, lunch or dinner before or after their infusion.

There’s so many traditions to look forward to when the Thanksgiving holiday rolls around – from the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade to the traditional dinner feast to endless hours of football. However, if you’re one of the many people living with IBD, traditional Thanksgiving foods might be the tradition you look forward to the least.

October 29th is World Psoriasis Day — an annual day dedicated to raising awareness for the people living with psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis. In the US alone, it’s estimated that over 8 million people live with psoriasis.

Many people are finding this summer with the outbreak of COVID-19 abnormal at best, but it can be especially challenging for those living with Crohn’s disease as they have to be extremely careful to avoid exposure to COVID-19. As we enter into the home stretch of the summer months, we’re taking a deeper dive in how to live well in the heat, sunshine and Coronavirus while managing Crohn’s disease.