Psoriasis Treatment
Psoriasis Treatment Treatment in Bhubaneswar
Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune skin disorder that causes the rapid buildup of skin cells, leading to scaling, redness, inflammation, and discomfort. It’s a non-contagious condition that tends to run in families and often appears in cycles—flaring for weeks or months and then subsiding. Though it has no permanent cure, there are many effective treatments to manage symptoms and improve quality of life.
What is Psoriasis?
Psoriasis is a long-term inflammatory skin condition where the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy skin cells, causing them to multiply up to 10 times faster than normal. This results in thick, scaly patches that may appear on the scalp, elbows, knees, lower back, hands, feet, and other areas. The skin becomes red, raised, and covered with silvery-white scales. It is often associated with itching, burning, and cracking of the skin. Psoriasis can also affect the joints—a condition known as psoriatic arthritis. While the exact cause is unknown, a combination of genetic, immune, and environmental factors is believed to trigger the disease. Managing psoriasis involves controlling flare-ups, reducing inflammation, and improving the appearance and texture of the skin.
Different Types of Psoriasis
Plaque Psoriasis (Psoriasis Vulgaris) – Most common; raised red patches with silvery scales
Guttate Psoriasis – Small, drop-shaped spots, often triggered by infections
Inverse Psoriasis – Affects skin folds (under arms, breasts, groin); smooth, shiny lesions
Pustular Psoriasis – White pustules surrounded by red skin; can be localized or widespread
Erythrodermic Psoriasis – Severe, rare form with widespread redness, peeling, and itching
Symptoms of Psoriasis
Red patches of skin with thick, silvery scales
Dry, cracked skin that may bleed
Itching, burning, or soreness around patches
Thickened, pitted, or ridged nails
Stiff or swollen joints (psoriatic arthritis)
Cyclic flare-ups and remissions
Psoriasis Treatment
✅ 1. Topical Treatments (for mild to moderate psoriasis)
Corticosteroid Creams: First-line treatment to reduce inflammation and itching
Vitamin D Analogues (e.g., Calcipotriol): Slow skin cell growth
Coal Tar Preparations: Reduce scaling, itching, and inflammation
Salicylic Acid: Helps remove scales and soften plaques
Calcineurin Inhibitors (e.g., Tacrolimus): Especially useful for facial and sensitive areas
✅ 2. Phototherapy (Light Therapy)
UVB Therapy: Narrow-band UVB light slows skin cell turnover
PUVA (Psoralen + UVA): A photosensitizing agent is taken before UVA exposure
Excimer Laser: Targets specific areas with intense UVB light
Light therapy is effective for widespread or treatment-resistant psoriasis but requires regular sessions under medical supervision.
✅ 3. Systemic (Oral/Injected) Medications
For moderate to severe or resistant cases
Methotrexate: Slows down skin cell production; also used for psoriatic arthritis
Cyclosporine: Suppresses immune response but used short-term due to toxicity
Acitretin: An oral retinoid for long-term control in certain types of psoriasis
Biologic Injections: Target specific parts of the immune system (e.g., TNF-alpha, IL-17, IL-23 inhibitors)
Examples: Adalimumab (Humira), Secukinumab (Cosentyx), Ustekinumab (Stelara)
Apremilast (Otezla): An oral PDE4 inhibitor that reduces inflammation with fewer side effects
✅ 4. Natural & Supportive Therapies
Moisturizers: Prevent skin dryness and scaling
Aloe Vera Gel: Soothing and anti-inflammatory
Dead Sea Salts / Oatmeal Baths: Help relieve itching and inflammation
Diet & Lifestyle: Anti-inflammatory foods, avoiding alcohol, weight management
Stress Management: Since stress is a major trigger, techniques like yoga, meditation, and sleep hygiene are beneficial
