Powerful Ways to Treat Psoriasis In 2021

Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune skin disorder that affects more than 8 million people in the U.S. The disease can cause discomfort, pain, and emotional stress, but experienced dermatologists can work with patients to limit symptoms. People with psoriasis (and other dermatological conditions) can find helpful resources with a quick online search. By comparing options, they can have knowledgeable conversations with their physicians -or find a dermatologist who can provide relief.

Signs and Symptoms of Psoriasis

While doctors don’t know the exact causes of psoriasis, the condition is believed to develop due to an overactive immune system. Psoriasis speeds up the growth cycle of skin cells. The old cells pile up on top of the skin instead of shedding.

This cycle causes “flare ups” of itchy, red, scaly patches, which can form anywhere on the body. However, the patches typically occur on the elbows, knees, torso and scalp.

There are five types of psoriasis, all causing similar issues with inflammation, but with varying effects on the skin. The most common symptoms of psoriasis are:

• Itchy, burning patches of skin
• Red spots on skin covered with thick, silvery scales
• Swollen joints
• Rough, pitted, or crumbling nails
• Dry, cracked skin
• Scaly patches on skin
• Red sections of the skin that appear sunburnt

Areas affected by psoriasis can be small, having minimal effect on the skin, but some patients have large, painful outbreaks covering a majority of the body. Most people experience cyclical phases of the disorder. These phases may be triggered by environmental factors (such as dry weather) or patient-specific factors (stress, smoking, heavy alcohol use, and certain medications may trigger flare-ups).

While psoriasis can be painful, it is not contagious. Dermatologists can often identify the signs of psoriasis quickly, and diagnosis sometimes involves a lab biopsy (a small section of skin is removed and tested).

Managing Psoriasis and Finding Treatments

Though there is no cure for psoriasis, the disorder is often manageable. This is why diagnosis and treatment is important -psoriasis can severely affect a person's day-to-day life, causing feelings of isolation, emotional stress, and additional health issues.

Treatments are determined by the type and locations affected. Some treatment options include:

Topical Therapy - This treatment involves use of steroid creams or other topical ointments to slow down the skin cell growth cycle, reduce inflammation, and prevent skin cell build-up.

Light Therapy - Various types of UV light exposure have been shown to decrease inflammation and slow skin cell growth. Certain light therapies can have side effects such as nausea, headache, burns, and wrinkled skin. To minimize side effects, patients should only use phototherapy devices that have been prescribed by a doctor.

For this reason, dermatologists often recommend in-office phototherapy for psoriasis (as opposed to at-home treatments). Both in-office and at-home treatments require a prescription.

Oral or Injected Medications - Steroids, retinoids, or other immune-supressing medications are often used to minimize the effects of psoriasis. Medicines for systemic psoriasis include methotrexate, cyclosporine, and soriatane.

These medications can have side effects, and patients may need to take multiple medications to find a combination that works effectively.

Alternative Treatments - Supplements with vitamin D and other micronutrients may help some patients prevent flare-ups. Since stress can trigger psoriasis, some patients use yoga, acupuncture, and other alternative therapies to prevent new therapies.

However, patients should always work with their physicians when exploring alternative therapies and treatments -some supplements may interfere with prescribed medications.

Lifestyle changes for managing psoriasis include using a daily moisturizer, avoiding harsh soaps, using sunscreen, and learning about (and avoiding) triggers.

Again, patients need to communicate with their doctors to find effective treatment options. Online resources can help people find local dermatologists who specialize in psoriasis management. Some patients may also use the internet to find affordable UV treatments or other potentially useful therapies.

Researching Information About Psoriasis Online

When looking online, psoriasis patients should carefully evaluate treatment information. It’s a good idea to look for at least 3-4 resources when searching, particularly when choosing a physician or considering a treatment like phototherapy. Pricing can vary from one clinic to the next, and some physicians have better resources for treating psoriasis.

The good news: Because psoriasis is a relatively common condition, most people can easily find experienced local options for managing the disease. Remember, while there’s no known cure for psoriasis, many treatments can limit flare-ups and prevent the most serious symptoms. By reading as much information as possible -and comparing clinics and physicians -people with psoriasis can take more control by making informed health decisions.