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Psoriasis Treatment - Procedure, Cost And Side Effects

Last Updated: Apr 25, 2024

What is the treatment?

Psoriasis is the condition of the skin where the skin cells start to multiply at abnormal levels. Usually, the cell regeneration occurs and balances with the dead skin cells. However, in Psoriasis since the skin cells start to develop abnormally, they rise to the top of your skin and die out leaving behind a red plaque covered with white scales. They typically occur on the knees, elbows and sometimes in your scalp. There are many reasons attributed towards why the skin cells behave abnormally. The common reason being that they are linked to the way your immune system performs. Once you know that you have the condition, it is better to consult with your doctor and get the appropriate treatments rather than trying out OTC products. This is not exactly a skin condition but rather an abnormality in your skin. Hence it is mandatory to find out why it happens. Once it is found, the Psoriasis treatment can aim to stop the skin cells from growing quickly and at the same time focus on your skin damage. The skin should also be made soft and supple once again. Hence the treatment of Psoriasis can involve multiple treatment procedures at the same time to take care of your skin.

How is the treatment done?

As stated earlier the treatment plan aims to stop your skin cells from multiplying first. Later the treatment would focus on getting your skin back in shape. To achieve this, there can be a combination of multiple treatments done at the same time. Your doctor would test the nature of your skin and identify the potential cause for it before imparting the treatments. The most common methods would be the usage of topical creams. They are ointment based and are applied on your raw skin and in your affected area. The results can be slow, but however, this treatment works effectively in 60% of the cases. These ointments can be a combination of salicylic acid, coal tar, anthralin, etc. Light therapy can also work against the exploit of the skin cells. These treatments use natural or artificial UV light over the skin to control the cell expansion. Your doctor will guide you on the type of light to use and the amount of exposure you would require. In some cases, you might be undertaking oral medications or injected medications to prevent the flare up. It should be noted that not all these drugs work on everyone. Hence care should be taken to first identify the skin type you have and your health condition before getting these drugs. You can discuss and consult with your doctor about these medications in detail.

Who is eligible for the treatment? (When is the treatment done?)

People who have been diagnosed with Psoriasis can be qualified for the treatment. It is always better to treat the symptoms of Psoriasis from the simplest means like topical creams and UV light therapy and go to advanced means. The aim of the treatment is to curb the skin cells from growing quickly and to reduce the inflammation. They also aim to reduce the scales to the maximum permissible limits.

Who is not eligible for the treatment?

Topical creams can be had by every individual. However, for advanced medications and procedures do consult with your doctor about the type of therapy you would prefer. Also, discuss with your doctor about your allergic symptoms and get the drugs and medications that are best suited for you. Some of the drugs used can be strong. Hence it is always better to consult your doctor before taking any medications on your own.

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Are there any side effects?

It could depend on your skin type and the possibility of other medical condition you might have. Topical creams that smoothen your skin are mild and do not have any side effects. However, if you are going for advanced procedures, there are chances that it might cause some allergic reactions in you. However, most of the treatment for Psoriasis is considered safe and has been perfected for years. You can check with your doctor if you have concerns.

What are the post-treatment guidelines?

Post the treatment your skin can still have some leftover symptoms from the treatment. You might be advised to use a mild skin moisturizer and to keep your skin free of blemishes. Though sunlight can be good for your skin, overexposure can be harmful. Hence check with your doctor about the correct exposure and take care of your skin accordingly. Also, ensure that your keep skin clean of impurities by having regular cleaning with soap and water.

How long does it take to recover?

The recovery period depends on your skin type and the nature of the treatment used. For some individuals, the results can be immediate, whereas for some individuals the effect can take some time. The doctor would initially check how well you are responding to the treatment and make some changes if the desired results are not got.

What is the price of the treatment in India?

In India, the cost of the treatments depends on the type of clinic or medical center you choose. The average price can start from INR 1000 and can go up depending on the kind of treatment. When choosing the medical center, choose a clinic with a good reputation.

Are the results of the treatment permanent?

In 40% of the cases, the results are permanent, and even the skin liaisons can go away. But however, in some cases, there are chances that the condition might return. It basically depends on how your immune system performs, as it has a direct link with the growth of your skin tissues. Try to identify what causes Psoriasis in your skin type, and you can stay away or curb those lifestyles.

What are the alternatives to the treatment?

Alternative treatments can include usage of special diet and dietary supplements. Aloe Vera gel is known to have antioxidant properties. Hence you can consider using it. Also, fish oil is known to reduce the symptoms to an extent. You can also try using herbal creams for a brief period and look at the results after consulting with your doctor.

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Written ByDr. Amit Agarkar MD - Dermatology,FCPS - Dermatology, Venereology & Leprosy,MBBSDermatology
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