Treating Psoriasis: What You Need to Know About Options

Managing psoriasis can be a challenging and ongoing process, as this pain and itch-causing skin condition can be incurable. While there is no cure for psoriasis, there are many treatments available to help individuals manage their symptoms and keep the skin condition from getting worse.

Topical Treatments

Topical treatments involve applying creams, ointments, and other preparations directly on the skin. These strategies are often the first recommended for milder cases of psoriasis, and can help reduce irritation, itching, and scaling. Creams and ointments that contain corticosteroids are the most popular, but some cases may require stronger treatments such as coal tar, calcipotriol, or anthralin. Depending on the type of topical treatment used, these medications may need to be applied several times throughout the day or night.

Light Therapy

Also known as phototherapy, light therapy involves intermittent exposure of the skin to artificial or natural light sources such as a UVB light box or sunlight. This type of treatment is usually prescribed for cases where topical treatment hasn’t been successful or in severe cases of psoriasis. It helps reduce inflammation, ease itching, and reduce the activity of certain cells that cause skin problems.

Systemic Treatments

Systemic treatments are often used for more serious cases of psoriasis and involve either oral or injection medication that affects the entire body. Some types of systemic treatments that may be prescribed for psoriasis include biologic drugs, oral retinoids, and immunosuppressants. These medications can help reduce inflammation and block the production of cells in the skin that worsen the psoriasis symptoms.

Alternative Therapies

Alternative therapies are another option to consider for managing psoriasis and can help with reducing symptoms. Popular treatments in this category include acupuncture, herbal medicines, and light treatments, and studies have found promising results. Experts recommend consulting with a doctor who can assess the severity of the psoriasis and recommend the best therapy plan.

Psoriasis can be a challenging skin condition to manage, but there are a variety of treatments available to help control the severity of symptoms. With a combination of topical, light, systemic, or alternative treatments, individuals can find the right combination to manage and keep their psoriasis under control.

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