Psoriasis Treatment


Psoriasis treatment is a comprehensive procedure that helps to treat and minimize the symptoms of psoriasis.

Psoriasis is a chronic skin condition characterized by red, scaly patches on the skin. Treatment for psoriasis usually involves a combination of topical medications, light therapy, and oral or injectable medications. Topical medications, such as creams and ointments, can help reduce inflammation and slow the growth of skin cells. Light therapy, also known as phototherapy, involves exposing the skin to controlled amounts of natural or artificial light to slow the growth of skin cells and reduce inflammation. Patients with severe cases of psoriasis typically use oral and injectable medications, such as biological drugs, when they don’t respond to other treatments.

What is Psoriasis?

Psoriasis is a chronic skin condition that causes red, scaly patches on the skin. The overproduction of skin cells causes these patches, called plaques. The exact cause of psoriasis is not known, but doctors think it’s an immune system problem. The condition typically affects the scalp, elbows, knees, and lower back, but it can occur anywhere on the body. Symptoms of psoriasis can range from mild, with a few small patches, to severe, with widespread, thick, and red plaques. The condition can also cause itching, burning, and pain, and it can affect a person’s quality of life.

psoriasis treatment
Psoriasis Treatment

Psoriasis Treatment

Treatment for psoriasis typically involves a combination of different options, which includes:

Topical Medications 

Creams, ointments, gels, and lotions that are applied directly to the skin can help reduce inflammation and slow the growth of skin cells. These medications may include corticosteroids, vitamin D analogs, coal tar, and retinoids.

Phototherapy 

Light therapy or phototherapy involves exposing the skin to controlled amounts of natural or artificial light to slow the growth of skin cells and reduce inflammation. Patients can do this treatment at a doctor’s office or at home with a light box.

Oral and Injectable Medications 

Medication is for moderate to severe cases of psoriasis when the patient doesn’t respond to other treatments. These medications may include methotrexate, cyclosporine, and biological drugs, such as adalimumab, etanercept, and ustekinumab.

Lifestyle Changes 

Maintaining a healthy diet, avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, and managing stress can help improve symptoms of psoriasis.

Combination therapy 

This is when doctors recommend a combination of the above-mentioned treatments to get the best results.

Psoriasis pediatric treatment is similar to that for adults, but it’s important to take into account the child’s age, the location and severity of psoriasis, and any potential side effects of the treatment.

Psoriasis Natural Treatment

There are several natural treatments for psoriasis that may be helpful in reducing symptoms. However, it’s important to note that any psoriasis natural treatment may not be effective for everyone and should always be used under the guidance of a healthcare provider.

Moisturizers 

Moisturizing the skin can help reduce itching and scaling associated with psoriasis.

Diet 

Eating a healthy diet that is rich in fruits, vegetables, and omega-3 fatty acids may help reduce inflammation and improve symptoms of psoriasis.

Exercise 

Regular physical activity can help reduce stress and improve overall health.

Dead Sea Salt 

Soaking in a bath with Dead Sea salt can help reduce itching and scaling associated with psoriasis.

Aloe Vera 

Applying aloe vera gel to the skin can help to reduce inflammation and itching.

Tea tree oil 

Tea tree oil has anti-inflammatory properties and may help reduce symptoms of psoriasis.

Turmeric 

Turmeric has anti-inflammatory properties and may be beneficial for psoriasis.

Inverse psoriasis treatment
Inverse Psoriasis Treatment

Inverse Psoriasis Treatment

Also known as flexural psoriasis, is a type of psoriasis that affects the skin in areas where the skin folds and rubs together, such as the armpits, groin, and under the breasts. Treatment for inverse psoriasis is similar to the ones mentioned above. However, additional treatments may include:

Topical Vitamin D Analogues 

Applying calcipotriol, a vitamin D analog, to the skin to help reduce inflammation and slow the growth of skin cells.

Topical Retinoids 

Tazarotene, a topical retinoid, may be used to reduce inflammation and slow the growth of skin cells.

Oral Medications 

For severe cases of inverse psoriasis that do not respond to other treatments, oral medications such as methotrexate, acitretin, or cyclosporine may be used.

Psoriasis Treatment: Conclusion

Psoriasis is a chronic skin condition that requires a comprehensive treatment approach. The treatment options include topical medications, light therapy, oral or injectable medications, lifestyle changes, and combination therapy. Each case of psoriasis is unique and the best treatment option will depend on the severity of the condition, the location of the affected skin, and the patient’s overall health. It’s important to work closely with a dermatologist or other healthcare provider to determine the best treatment plan for your individual case of psoriasis. 

References

[1] Psoriasis Comprehensive Info. “Psoriasis” MayoClinic, 2023.

[2] Psoriasis Cure. “Psoriasis” NHS, 2023.

[3] Psoriasis Cure for Adults. “Treatment of psoriasis in adults” UpToDate, 2023.

[4] What Is Psoriasis? “What is psoriasis?” Cleveland Clinic, 2023.