Technically, psoriasis is an incurable disease. However, the reality is that it responds quite well to a variety of different topical and systemic treatments. Those who are suffering from moderate to severe psoriasis may want to read on to learn about their options for Psoriasis Treatment in Lehigh Valley PA to get started finding the relief they need.
Topical Treatments
Topical treatments are designed to bring local relief through application directly to the affected area. Treatment options include salicylic acid, steroid-based creams, calcipotriene cream, coal-tar ointments, and prescription retinoids. When choosing between these topical solutions, patients should inform their doctors about any allergies they have and should discuss potential side effects such as folliculitis, dry skin, and thinning of the skin.
Light Therapy
Exposure to natural sunlight can help many patients manage their psoriasis lesions, but for those who have persistent psoriasis, natural sunlight may not be enough. That’s when doctors typically recommend light therapy, often in conjunction with other topical treatments.
Oral and Injectable Medications
When topical treatments and light therapy fail, patients may be prescribed oral medications as a form of psoriasis treatment in Lehigh Valley PA. The down-side of these systemic approaches is that they sometimes produce more severe side effects and may place women of childbearing age at risk for birth defects.
Home Remedies
Those who are suffering from only mild psoriasis may find that they are able to get the relief they need from home remedies, though few of them have been scientifically proven to be effective in treating even moderate cases of the disease. There is some preliminary research that topical aloe vera application may help to improve symptoms, though it offers only a minimal amount of symptom relief. Bathing in dead sea salts and applying capsaicin gels or creams can also help patients with mild psoriasis to find relief at home, as can certain types of exclusionary diets, though it’s important to note that none of these home remedies can provide the same level of results as professional care.
Learn More Today
Suffering from psoriasis and interested in finding out about treatment options? The first step to take is to find a dermatologist who can offer a detailed diagnosis. Schedule an appointment today to get started.
