Moisturizing the affected area, avoiding triggers, and using topical or systemic medications prescribed by a healthcare provider can help manage psoriasis symptoms.
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Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune disease that affects the skin, causing dry, scaly patches to form. There is currently no cure for psoriasis, but there are several treatments that can help manage the condition and alleviate symptoms.
One of the key ways to manage psoriasis is by moisturizing the affected area. Keeping the skin moisturized can help reduce itching and redness, and can help prevent new patches from forming. It’s important to use gentle, fragrance-free moisturizers that won’t irritate the skin.
Another important aspect of managing psoriasis is avoiding triggers. Triggers can vary from person to person, but some common ones include stress, alcohol, smoking, and certain medications. By identifying and avoiding triggers, individuals with psoriasis can help reduce the frequency and severity of flare-ups.
In addition to these self-care measures, there are several medications that can help manage psoriasis. These include topical creams and ointments, phototherapy (light therapy), and systemic medications like methotrexate and biologics.
According to the National Psoriasis Foundation, “Psoriasis is more than just a skin disease, it affects every part of your life.” This sentiment is echoed by actress and psoriasis advocate LeAnn Rimes, who has said, “It’s not just a physical thing. It’s completely a mental thing as well.”
Here are some interesting facts about psoriasis:
- Psoriasis affects approximately 2-3% of the global population
- Psoriasis is not contagious; it is caused by an overactive immune system
- Psoriasis can affect anyone, regardless of age or ethnicity
- Psoriasis can be associated with other conditions like psoriatic arthritis and cardiovascular disease
Table:
Self-care measures | Medications |
---|---|
Moisturize affected area | Topical creams and ointments |
Avoid triggers | Phototherapy (light therapy) |
Systemic medications (methotrexate, biologics) |
A visual response to the word “What really helps psoriasis?”
Dr. Davin Lim discusses various treatment options for psoriasis such as creams, phototherapy, tablets, and injections. The treatment plan depends on the extent and location of the psoriasis, but creams are commonly used. UV-B phototherapy is a drug-free treatment option while tablets range from vitamin A to immunosuppressive medication. Biologics are high-end injections subsidized by PBS in Australia. Treatment plans are individualized for each patient.
Further responses to your query
Steroid creams or ointments (topical corticosteroids) are commonly used to treat mild to moderate psoriasis in most areas of the body. The treatment works by reducing inflammation. This slows the production of skin cells and reduces itching. Topical corticosteroids range in strength from mild to very strong.
Topical treatments for psoriasis come as ointments, creams, solutions, or foam and include: Steroid creams. These slow down immune cells in your skin. They can ease swelling and redness. Mild steroid creams are available over the counter. You’ll need a prescription from your doctor for something stronger.
Psoriasis can be an uncomfortable, persistent condition. However, certain vitamins may help reduce its effects. The major fat-soluble vitamins include vitamins A, D, E, and K. Water-soluble vitamins include the B vitamins and vitamin C. The method through which the body absorbs a vitamin helps define its intended effect.
Vitamin C-rich foods include citrus fruits, green leafy vegetables, and berries. People with psoriasis often have low serum levels of selenium, a potent antioxidant. In one study, vitamin supplements helped to improve selenium concentrations in people with psoriasis.
Moisturizing cleanser Over-the-counter moisturizing cleansers like Vanicream™, CeraVe® and Cetaphil® are options that target two psoriasis symptoms: dryness and itchiness. “These products help soften some of the scaly skin and provide hydration to the skin, potentially limiting some of the itching,” explains Dr. McGregor.
Also, individuals are curious
- Sunlight. Brief, daily exposures to sunlight (heliotherapy) might improve psoriasis.
- Goeckerman therapy. An approach that combines coal tar treatment with light therapy is called the Goeckerman therapy.
- UVB broadband.
- UVB narrowband.
- Psoralen plus ultraviolet A (PUVA).
- Excimer laser.
Antioxidants are helpful in the treatment of psoriasis, however, psoriasis patients are often deficient in antioxidants as well. You can add antioxidants to your diet by eating nuts, fruits, and vegetables that are rich in selenium, and vitamins C and E.
Interesting facts on the topic