Treating Psoriasis in Issaquah, WA
Comprehensive naturopathic care via telehealth, serving the greater Eastside area
About Psoriasis
Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune condition affecting approximately 8 million Americans, characterized by rapid skin cell turnover leading to thick, scaly plaques. While psoriasis manifests in the skin, it is a systemic inflammatory condition with genetic, immune, and environmental components. The condition occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy skin cells, accelerating their production cycle from about 28 days to just 3-4 days. This rapid turnover causes cells to accumulate on the skin surface, forming characteristic raised, red, scaly patches. Psoriasis often coexists with other inflammatory conditions including psoriatic arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease, and increased cardiovascular risk.
Naturopathic Treatment for Psoriasis in Issaquah
Naturopathic treatment for psoriasis focuses on modulating immune function, reducing systemic inflammation, healing gut dysfunction, and addressing triggers while supporting skin health. Anti-inflammatory nutrition is foundational—emphasizing omega-3 rich fish, colorful vegetables with antioxidants, anti-inflammatory herbs and spices, while eliminating inflammatory processed foods, excess sugar, and alcohol which can trigger flares. Many patients benefit from identifying food sensitivities through elimination protocols—common triggers include gluten, nightshades, and processed foods. Gut health optimization is crucial as the gut-immune connection profoundly impacts psoriasis—addressing dysbiosis, healing intestinal permeability, and supporting beneficial bacteria reduces systemic inflammation driving psoriasis. Probiotic therapy and gut healing protocols often improve symptoms. Targeted supplementation includes omega-3 fatty acids providing potent anti-inflammatory effects, vitamin D which modulates immune function and is often deficient in psoriasis, curcumin from turmeric for anti-inflammatory and immune-modulating properties, and antioxidants like vitamin E and selenium protecting against oxidative stress. Herbal medicines including Oregon grape root, milk thistle for liver support and detoxification, and adaptogenic herbs for stress management provide additional benefit. Stress is a major trigger for psoriasis flares—comprehensive stress management through meditation, yoga, breathwork, and adequate sleep is essential. Topical support using gentle moisturizers, aloe vera, and anti-inflammatory herbs can soothe affected skin. Avoiding triggers including skin trauma, infections, certain medications, and excessive alcohol supports remission. This comprehensive approach aims to reduce flare frequency and severity, modulate immune function, decrease systemic inflammation, and improve quality of life.
For Issaquah residents: Dr. Sanika offers convenient telehealth appointments for Issaquah residents. Virtual consultations provide the same comprehensive care as in-person visits, with the added benefit of connecting from your home or office. For those who prefer in-person care, visits are available at the Kirkland office, just 15-25 minutes from Issaquah.
Psoriasis in the Issaquah Community
Local Health Landscape
Issaquah residents demonstrate high engagement with outdoor activities and wellness practices. The area has lower obesity rates (14%) compared to state average but higher rates of sports-related injuries and overuse syndromes. Approximately 10% of women report thyroid dysfunction, and there's growing interest in hormone health, sports performance optimization, and injury recovery support. The active lifestyle community seeks practitioners who understand athletic demands, recovery optimization, and performance nutrition. Mental health awareness is strong, with 19% actively seeking support for anxiety, stress management, or seasonal mood variations.
Community Profile
Issaquah is a rapidly growing city nestled in the Cascade foothills with a strong outdoor recreation culture. The median age is 39, with a median household income of $127,000. The population is 63% White, 21% Asian, 9% Hispanic/Latino, and 7% other ethnicities. Approximately 65% have bachelor's degrees or higher. The community values active lifestyles, environmental sustainability, and family wellness. There's a mix of long-time residents and newcomers drawn by tech jobs and mountain access.
Nearby Healthcare Resources
Issaquah residents have access to quality healthcare facilities for lab work, imaging, and specialty care:
- •Quest Diagnostics - Issaquah (1580 NW Gilman Blvd, Suite 3, Issaquah)
- •LabCorp - Swedish Issaquah Campus (751 NE Blakely Dr, Issaquah)
- •Swedish Medical Center - Issaquah Campus (751 NE Blakely Dr, Issaquah)
- •Safeway Pharmacy - Issaquah Highlands (1495 11th Ave NW, Issaquah)
- •Fred Meyer Pharmacy - Issaquah (1175 NW Gilman Blvd, Issaquah)
- •Overlake Medical Center (1035 116th Ave NE, Bellevue) - 18 minutes
- •Issaquah Physical Therapy & Hand Center (1580 NW Gilman Blvd, Issaquah)
- •Eastside Endocrinology (1580 NW Gilman Blvd, Suite 2, Issaquah)
Treatment Approaches
Common Symptoms
- •Raised, red patches of skin covered with silvery-white scales (plaques)
- •Dry, cracked skin that may bleed
- •Itching, burning, or soreness in affected areas
- •Thickened, pitted, or ridged nails
- •Swollen and stiff joints in psoriatic arthritis
- •Flares triggered by stress, infections, injury, medications, or weather
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I see Dr. Sanika for Psoriasis in Issaquah?
Dr. Sanika offers telehealth appointments for Issaquah residents, providing comprehensive naturopathic care for Psoriasis from the comfort of your home. Her office is located in nearby Kirkland (about 15-25 minutes from Issaquah), and in-person visits are also available if you prefer.
How do I get lab work done for Psoriasis in Issaquah?
Dr. Sanika works with Quest Diagnostics and LabCorp, both of which have convenient locations in Issaquah. Nearby options include: Quest Diagnostics - Issaquah (1580 NW Gilman Blvd, Suite 3, Issaquah); LabCorp - Swedish Issaquah Campus (751 NE Blakely Dr, Issaquah). Lab orders are sent electronically, and you can choose the location most convenient for you.
What should I expect during my first visit for Psoriasis?
Your initial consultation is 60-90 minutes and includes a comprehensive health history review, discussion of your Psoriasis symptoms, physical exam if needed (in-person visits), and creation of a personalized treatment plan. Follow-up appointments are typically 30-45 minutes and can be done via telehealth for convenience, with in-person visits available at the Kirkland office if preferred.
Ready to Start Your Healing Journey?
Schedule a consultation to discuss your Psoriasis treatment options.
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Dr. Sanika Kshirsagar, ND
Doctorate of Naturopathic Medicine (ND)
Bastyr University, Kenmore, WA
Medical Disclaimer: The information and content provided on this website is for informational purposes only and not intended to diagnose or treat any condition. It is not meant to substitute for the professional advice provided by your physician or any other healthcare professional. If you suspect that you have a medical problem, contact your healthcare provider promptly. Do not disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking professional advice because of something you have read on this website.
