11 Things That One Must Know About Psoriasis and Its Treatment

Psoriasis is a persistent inflammatory disorder that affects the skin, leading it to produce red, irritated areas covered in white or silvery scales. It is a complicated condition that can have a substantial influence on a person's physical and mental well-being. 

Many individuals are still unaware of this skin condition. This is sometimes misjudged as a common skin allergy, which people believe will go away on its own. However, if one is affected by psoriasis, one should get it treated by a dermatologist to avoid adverse effects. This blog is drafted to provide readers with a basic understanding of psoriasis and its effective treatment. The information included in this blog is taken from specialists who are experts in medical dermatology. One such expert is the best skin specialist in Ludhiana, Dr. Shikha Aggarwal.

Let’s begin with understanding some facts related to Psoriasis. 

• Autoimmune Nature: Psoriasis is an autoimmune disease, which means that the immune system incorrectly harms healthy skin cells. This causes a fast development of skin cells on the surface, resulting in distinctive plaques.
• Prevalence: Psoriasis is more widespread than you would assume, affecting roughly 2-3% of the global population. It can emerge at any age, however, it most commonly appears between the ages of 15 and 35.
• Genetic Factors: Psoriasis has a high genetic component. You are more likely to have the disorder if one or both of your parents have it.
• Triggers: Psoriasis flare-ups can be caused by a variety of circumstances. These include stress, infections, some drugs, skin injuries (such as cuts or sunburns), and even temperature changes.
• Types of Psoriasis: Psoriasis is classified into numerous kinds, the most frequent of which are plaque psoriasis, guttate psoriasis, inverse psoriasis, pustular psoriasis, and erythrodermic psoriasis. Each variety has specific properties and affects different parts of the body.
• Physical and Emotional Impact: Psoriasis has both physical and emotional consequences. Because of cultural misunderstandings regarding the disorder, the apparent symptoms can lead to self-esteem difficulties, anxiety, and sadness.
• No Cure, but Treatable: While there is no known cure for psoriasis, there are several treatment options for managing its symptoms. Topical creams and phototherapy are examples, as are systemic medications and biological treatments.
• Psoriatic Arthritis: Around 30% of persons with psoriasis develop psoriatic arthritis, a joint ailment. It can cause discomfort, edema, and stiffness, limiting movement greatly.
• Impact of Lifestyle: Adopting a healthy lifestyle can make a difference. Eating a balanced diet, avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol intake, stress management and regular exercise can all help with psoriasis management.
• Professional Assistance: If you feel you have psoriasis, you should see a dermatologist for a complete diagnosis. A healthcare expert i.e., a skin expert can assist you in tailoring a treatment plan to your requirements.
• Irritating Skin: People with psoriasis should avoid skin irritants such as harsh soaps, high temperatures, and tight clothes. Moisturizing regularly might also assist relieve soreness.

Psoriasis is a persistent skin illness with symptoms that extend beyond the skin. We can debunk myths and help people with psoriasis by knowing its autoimmune nature, causes, kinds, and treatment choices. People with psoriasis can live happy lives while efficiently controlling their illness with the correct treatment technique and a supportive environment.

Treatments for Psoriasis

Psoriasis treatment is determined by the severity of the ailment, the kind of psoriasis, and the individual's reaction to various medications. Here are some popular psoriasis treatments:

Topical Therapies:

• Corticosteroids (Topical): These anti-inflammatory lotions or ointments can help decrease redness and irritation. They come in a variety of strengths.
• Topical Vitamin D Analogues: These lotions include synthetic analogs of vitamin D that delay the proliferation of skin cells.
• Topical Retinoids: These lotions, which are derived from vitamin A, serve to reduce inflammation and skin cell formation.
• Calcineurin Inhibitors: These topical drugs decrease the immune response and can be useful in sensitive regions such as the face and genitalia.
• Coal Tar: Coal tar shampoos, creams, and lotions can help decrease scaling, irritation, and inflammation.
• Salicylic Acid: This component is present in shampoos, soaps, and lotions and aids in the removal of scales.

Light Treatment (Phototherapy):

• UVB Phototherapy: UVB light exposure stops the fast development of skin cells. It may be done with a UVB lamp under physician supervision.
• PUVA (Psoralen + UVA): Before exposing the skin to UVA light, a drug called psoralen is taken, which helps restrict skin cell proliferation.

Medications Used Orally:

• Apremilast: A novel oral medicine for moderate to severe psoriasis that lowers inflammation.
• Oral Corticosteroids: These may be administered for short-term relief during severe flare-ups, but their long-term usage is limited due to possible adverse effects.

Therapies in Combination:

Doctors may mix treatments to maximize efficacy while minimizing negative effects. Combining topical treatment with phototherapy, for example, can be useful.

Self-Care and Lifestyle:

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle that includes a balanced diet, regular exercise, stress management, and avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol use might aid in the treatment of psoriasis symptoms. Moisturizing regularly helps to avoid dryness and irritation.

It is crucial to remember that treatment success varies from person to person, and determining the best treatment approach may need some trial and error. A dermatologist should be consulted for an accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment suggestions depending on the individual's condition and needs.

If someone is looking for a Psoriasis Treatment in Ludhiana, they must visit the Bliss Laser Skin Clinic and get a consultation with Dr. Shikha Aggarwal. The expert doctor will perform a thorough examination in order to provide a comprehensive treatment. Book an appointment now.