Overview of Treatments for Psoriasis

There are a few treatment options you can avail of to find comfort if you are suffering from

psoriasis. These include topical, systematic, biologic and complementary treatments. Topical

cures are those medicines that are applied to your skin and are the first option patients try.

These meds reduce extra cell reproduction and normalize inflammations growing because of

psoriasis. Many of these are available over the counter while others would require you to have

a prescription.

Steroids are anti inflammatory drugs that are frequently used and help to reduce the redness

and swelling of lesions. The Food and Drug Association has approved of two active agents coal

tar and salicylic acid that can be used to treat psoriasis. There are other inactive agents like

jojoba, aloe vera and capsaicin which also soothe, moisturize and remove scales. The next

option is phototherapy whereby the skin is exposed to ultraviolet rays regularly and under the

supervision of medical experts. This does not only help in getting rid of scales but also reduces

itching.

Those who have moderate or severe psoriasis or have not found relief in topical medications

and phototherapy take prescription drugs which comprise the systematic treatment. You can

take the pills orally or the liquid form of it can be administered to you via injections. Biologic

drugs are given to the patient in a similar manner – via injections or IV (intravenous infusion).

This protein based drug that is derived from cultured living cells has been treating psoriasis for

as long as 100 years. They target certain parts of your body and block the damage stemming

from psoriasis while promoting the healthy functioning of the immune system.

There are also alternative and complementary treatments that give relief to chronic psoriasis

patients. These revolve around pain management and preventive care. For this procedure, your

diet is brought under the scanner and supplements or herbs are given to you. You also actively

participate in meditation, yoga, aromatherapy, physical exercise, ancient arts of tai chi and

acupuncture. While these help to get you relief from pain and irritation, you will have to get

more active treatments to deal with your psoriasis problems.