Soma Naturopathic

Treating Psoriasis in Kirkland, WA

Comprehensive naturopathic care with in-person visits and telehealth options

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 Kirkland

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.

Serving Kirkland patients: Dr. Sanika sees patients in person at her Kirkland office and also offers telehealth appointments for maximum flexibility. Whether you prefer face-to-face consultations or the convenience of virtual care, you'll receive personalized, evidence-based treatment for Psoriasis.

Psoriasis in the Kirkland Community

Local Health Landscape

Kirkland residents show high engagement with preventive healthcare and wellness services. The Eastside has above-average rates of thyroid disorders, with approximately 12% of women experiencing thyroid dysfunction. Local healthcare utilization data shows increasing demand for integrative medicine, particularly for hormone health, digestive issues, and stress management. The area has lower smoking rates (8%) compared to state average but higher stress-related conditions due to tech industry demands.

Community Profile

Kirkland is a diverse suburban community with a median age of 39. The city has a highly educated population with 65% holding bachelor's degrees or higher, and a median household income of $115,000. The population is 69% White, 16% Asian, 8% Hispanic/Latino, and 7% other ethnicities. The tech industry presence brings a younger, health-conscious demographic seeking preventive and integrative care.

Nearby Healthcare Resources

Kirkland residents have access to quality healthcare facilities for lab work, imaging, and specialty care:

  • Quest Diagnostics - Totem Lake (12911 120th Ave NE, Suite D-3, Kirkland)
  • LabCorp - Kirkland Urban (12911 120th Ave NE, Kirkland)
  • Bartell Drugs - Downtown Kirkland (302 Central Way, Kirkland)
  • Kirkland Pharmacy (825 Market St, Kirkland)
  • EvergreenHealth Medical Center (12040 NE 128th St, Kirkland)
  • Overlake Medical Center - 15 minutes from Kirkland (1035 116th Ave NE, Bellevue)
  • Lake Washington Physical Therapy (725 Market St, Kirkland)
  • Northwest Women's Healthcare (12911 120th Ave NE, Suite J-1, Kirkland)

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 Kirkland?

Yes! Dr. Sanika sees patients in person at her Kirkland office located at 12911 120th Ave NE, Suite J-3, Kirkland, WA 98034. She also offers telehealth appointments for added convenience. Both in-person and virtual visits provide comprehensive naturopathic care for Psoriasis.

How do I get lab work done for Psoriasis in Kirkland?

Dr. Sanika works with Quest Diagnostics and LabCorp, both of which have convenient locations in Kirkland. Nearby options include: Quest Diagnostics - Totem Lake (12911 120th Ave NE, Suite D-3, Kirkland); LabCorp - Kirkland Urban (12911 120th Ave NE, Kirkland). 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 in person or via telehealth.

Ready to Start Your Healing Journey?

Schedule a consultation to discuss your Psoriasis treatment options.

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Dr. Sanika Kshirsagar

Dr. Sanika Kshirsagar, ND

Doctorate of Naturopathic Medicine (ND)

Bastyr University, Kenmore, WA

Last reviewed:byDr. Sanika Kshirsagar, ND