Q. How psoriasis can be cured?
Doctor Answer is medically reviewed by SecondMedic medical review team.
Psoriasis is considered a chronic condition with no known cure. However, there are various treatments available that can help manage symptoms effectively and improve quality of life for individuals with psoriasis. Treatment approaches for psoriasis typically aim to:
1. Reduce Inflammation: Topical treatments, such as corticosteroids, vitamin D analogs, retinoids, and calcineurin inhibitors, can help reduce inflammation and slow down the growth of skin cells.
2. Moisturize and Soothe the Skin: Keeping the skin well-moisturized can help alleviate itching and discomfort associated with psoriasis. Emollients and moisturizers can be helpful in this regard.
3. Phototherapy: Phototherapy involves exposing the skin to ultraviolet (UV) light under medical supervision. UVB phototherapy and PUVA (psoralen plus ultraviolet A) therapy are common forms of phototherapy used to treat psoriasis.
4. Oral and Injectable Medications: For more severe cases of psoriasis, oral medications (such as methotrexate, cyclosporine, and apremilast) or injectable biologic drugs (such as TNF-alpha inhibitors, interleukin inhibitors, and PDE4 inhibitors) may be prescribed to help suppress the immune system and reduce inflammation.
5. Lifestyle Modifications: Making certain lifestyle changes can also help manage psoriasis symptoms. This includes avoiding triggers such as stress, certain medications, smoking, and excessive alcohol consumption. Maintaining a healthy weight and adopting a balanced diet may also have a positive impact on psoriasis symptoms.
It's important for individuals with psoriasis to work closely with their healthcare provider to develop a personalized treatment plan that addresses their specific needs and concerns. While there is no cure for psoriasis, with appropriate treatment and management, many people with psoriasis can achieve significant improvement in their symptoms and lead fulfilling lives.