What is the Treatment for Psoriasis

Psoriasis, a chronic skin condition characterised by the rapid growth of skin cells, results in the formation of scales. Managing psoriasis involves a range of treatment options, each tailored to the severity of the condition and the individual’s response to previous interventions. In this exploration, we delve into three main categories of psoriasis treatment: Topical Therapy, Light Therapy, and Oral/Injected Medications.

One must invest in health insurance so as not to face any financial hurdles in getting treated for such ailments.

Treatment of Psoriasis

Let’s look at the various options healthcare providers use to treat the ailment.

1. Topical Therapy

• Corticosteroids: These are commonly prescribed for mild to moderate psoriasis and come in various forms. While mild corticosteroid ointments are suitable for sensitive areas, your doctor may recommend stronger options like Triamcinolone or Clobetasol for tougher-to-treat areas. Extended usage, however, may result in the thinning of the skin.

• Vitamin D Analogues: Synthetic forms of vitamin D, such as Calcipotriene and Calcitriol, slow down skin cell growth. They can be used alone or in conjunction with corticosteroids, with Calcitriol being less irritating in sensitive areas.
• Retinoids: One can apply Tazarotene, available as a gel or cream, daily to reduce skin cell growth.
• Calcineurin Inhibitors: Tacrolimus and Pimecrolimus calm rashes and reduce scaling, particularly in thin-skinned areas where other treatments may cause irritation.
• Salicylic Acid: Shampoos and scalp solutions containing salicylic acid reduce scaling in scalp psoriasis, preparing the skin for better medication absorption.
• Coal Tar: Known for reducing scaling, itching, and inflammation, coal tar is available in various forms. However, it can be messy, stain clothing, and has a strong odour. Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals should not use it.

• Anthralin: This tar cream slows skin cell growth, removes scales, and smoothens the skin. Doctors do not recommend it for facial or genital use due to potential skin irritation and staining.

2. Light Therapy

• Sunlight: Brief, daily exposure to sunlight, known as heliotherapy, can improve psoriasis. However, consulting with a healthcare provider for the safest approach is crucial.
• Goeckerman Therapy: Combining coal tar with light therapy, Goeckerman therapy enhances the skin’s responsiveness to ultraviolet B (UVB) light.
• UVB Broadband and Narrowband: Controlled doses of UVB light, either broad or narrowband, can treat various forms of psoriasis. Narrowband UVB therapy may cause more severe side effects.
• Psoralen plus Ultraviolet A (PUVA): This involves taking a light-sensitising medication before exposing the skin to UVA light, offering a more aggressive treatment for severe psoriasis.
• Excimer Laser: Using a strong UVB light, this therapy targets affected skin more precisely and requires fewer sessions than traditional phototherapy.

3. Oral/Injected Medications

• Steroids: For small, persistent patches, your doctor may recommend injections of Triamcinolone directly into the affected areas.

• Retinoids: Acitretin and other retinoids, administered orally, reduce the production of skin cells. However, doctors refrain from advising them during pregnancy or breastfeeding.

• Biologics: These drugs altering the immune system, offer rapid improvement but must be used cautiously due to potential immune suppression and associated risks.
• Methotrexate: Administered weekly, Methotrexate decreases skin cell production but requires ongoing monitoring for potential side effects.
• Cyclosporine: An immunosuppressant used for severe psoriasis, it comes with limitations on long-term use due to increased risks of infection and other health issues.

• Other Medications: Thioguanine and Hydroxyurea are alternatives for individuals unable to take other drugs, but one must discuss their potential side effects with healthcare providers.

Treatment Considerations

It is important to consider individualised psoriasis treatment plans. Pustular or erythrodermic psoriasis may necessitate systemic medications from the outset. The goal is to find the most effective treatment with minimal side effects.

Alternative Medicine

While alternative therapies lack robust evidence, some individuals find relief through practices like special diets, vitamins, acupuncture, and herbal products. A few examples of psoriasis treatment include the following —

• Aloe Extract Cream: Derived from aloe vera leaves, it may reduce scaling, itching, and inflammation.
• Fish Oil Supplements: Combined with UVB therapy, oral fish oil might reduce rashes, while applying fish oil topically could improve scaling.
• Oregon Grape: Applied to the skin, it may alleviate the severity of psoriasis.

Before using these treatment solutions, consulting with healthcare professionals is prudent.

Conclusion

Psoriasis treatment generally involves three main approaches that we have discussed above. It is important to figure out what options work for which patient. Also, an investment in health insurance is important as it can protect you from financial burdens while getting treated for such health issues.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult your general physician or another certified medical professional for any questions regarding a medical condition. Relying on any information provided in this blog is solely at your own risk, and ICICI Lombard is not responsible for any effects or consequences resulting from the use of the information shared.