Treatment options for Psoriasis
There is currently NO cure for psoriasis. The aim of the treatment plan is to help clear the lesions and control symptoms by slowing down the rate of skin cells growth.
Treatment options include lifestyle changes, creams and ointments (topical therapy), light therapy (phototherapy), and systemic medication (either oral or injectables). The most suitable treatment depends on the severity of the psoriasis and the response to previous treatment. Your doctor may initially need to try different drugs or use a combination of treatments before finding an approach that works well for you.
Click to view DermTheory on Psoriasis Treatment options
Lifestyle Changes
Lifestyle changes can be easily initiated by you to
- have more rest and sleep
- reduce the amount of physical and mental stress
- stop smoking
- avoid excessive alcohol
- maintain ideal weight for your height
- get regular outdoor exercise
- try to avoid getting injury to your skin
Topical Therapy
Daily application of moisturiser to your skin is essential to maintain skin hydration and barrier function. In addition, your doctor may prescribe the following medication
- Steroid cream or lotion
- Vitamin D analogue (such as Calcipotriol)
- Retinoids (such as Tazarotene)
- Coal tar (shampoo, soaps or cream)
- Anthralin cream
- Calcineurin inhibitors (such as Tacrolimus or Pimecrolimus)
Phototherapy
Phototherapy may be only available in certain hospitals or skin clinics in your area. The treatment may be required 2-3 times weekly for a period of 3-6 months.
- Ultraviolet (UV) phototherapy
- PUVA (psoralen + Ultraviolet A)
Systemic Medication
Systemic medication may be required for more severe disease which does not respond to the treatment above as well as for psoriatic arthritis to prevent permanent joint damage. Systemic medication is more potent but also comes with higher side effects which needs to be monitored by regular blood tests and follow-up visits with your doctor.
- Methotrexate
- Otezla (apremilast)
- Cyclosporin
- Biologic agents
Mental Health
It is important to stay positive throughout your treatment journey and NOT to withdraw from social activities or sports because of the condition. You may experience periods of remissions and flare-ups so try to live a healthy lifestyle. Do join a psoriasis Support Group and share concerns with family members and other people affected by psoriasis.
Prognosis
Psoriasis is a chronic condition for which there is NO known cure with a tendency to flare up and remissions. Patients usually require lifelong treatment and intervention to keep the skin clear of psoriasis or control any complications.
See a skin doctor to get the correct diagnosis and treatment plan
Disclaimer. TELEME blog posts contains general information about health conditions and treatments. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. The information is not advice and should not be treated as such.
If you think you may be suffering from any medical condition, you should seek immediate medical attention from your doctor or other professional healthcare providers. You should never delay seeking medical advice, disregard medical advice, or discontinue medical treatment because of information on this website.