Are you struggling with repeated appearances of an itchy, red, scaly patch of skin? Most likely, you are affected by psoriasis, just as many people worldwide are. Psoriasis can range in severity, potentially causing physical discomfort, distress, and social isolation. But help is available for any case with a dermatologist. The condition can be managed with a variety of psoriasis treatments in Bangalore options offered by experienced providers at Dr. Dixit Cosmetic Dermatology Clinic in conjunction with lifestyle modifications.
To receive the utmost, tailored care for psoriasis from a modern practice conveniently located in Bangalore, contact Dr. Dixit Cosmetic Dermatology Clinic to schedule an appointment and receive expert care for your skin.
What is Psoriasis?
Psoriasis is an autoimmune skin condition that causes the skin cells to divide and accumulate rapidly on the surface. This creates flaky, itchy, red, inflamed patches of skin, usually covering small areas of skin on the elbows, scalp, knees, or lower back. The rashes may appear for a few weeks or months and then disappear. They may even go into remission. In some cases, brittle nails and arthritis are even associated with psoriasis.
What Causes Psoriasis?
The clear reason behind psoriasis is still under investigation. Researchers and dermatologists believe that the condition is a result of genetic and environmental factors that trigger the immune system to accelerate the growth of skin cells.
Signs/Symptoms of Psoriasis
Psoriasis-affected skin typically has:
- Red, scaly patches of skin
- Dryness and cracked skin
- Itching, tenderness, or burning.
Generally, the symptoms of psoriasis vary based on the type and severity of the condition. For some, psoriasis symptoms may include pitted, thick, or ridged nails. In men, psoriasis may cause genital sores. Almost one-third of patients with psoriasis develop joint pain and swelling, indicating a potential risk of arthritis.
To diagnose psoriasis, a dermatologist conducts a skin examination, reviews the patient's and family's medical history, and may perform a skin biopsy for confirmation. Based on the information gathered during the psoriatic evaluation, the dermatologist provides a suitable treatment plan.
Types of Psoriasis
There are several clinical patterns in which psoriasis can manifest on the skin. The different forms include:
- Plaque psoriasis - It is the most common type, characterized by pink or red, inflamed, itchy skin with white scales in patches. Usually, it affects the skin of the knees, elbows, and scalp.
- Nail psoriasis - As the name suggests, it's psoriasis affecting the appearance and structure of nails. The signs include nail pitting, discoloration, thickening, onycholysis, subungual hyperkeratosis, oil drop or salmon patch, and splinter hemorrhages.
- Sebopsoriasis - It combines signs of both psoriasis and seborrheic dermatitis. The areas typically affected by this type include the scalp (termed scalp psoriasis), armpits, chest, groin, or face.
- Guttate psoriasis- It features multiple spots of psoriasis, presenting on the torso after a sore throat or illness.
- Inverse/flexural psoriasis- It is the red, shiny, smooth areas of skin, primarily affecting the skin folds or creases like the skin in the groin, the armpits, under the breasts, and around the genitals.
- Pustular psoriasis- It is the most severe form of psoriasis as it causes tender, red skin lesions with pus-filled spots. Usually, it’s seen on the soles and palms.
- Erythrodermic psoriasis- It is the most extensive type of psoriasis, covering approximately 90% of the skin.
Professional Psoriasis Treatment in Bangalore
How Can Psoriasis be Treated: Top Dermatologist-Recommended Options
A range of treatments are available to manage the affected skin patches and relieve symptoms. The treatment plan for managing psoriasis, as recommended by Dr. Rasya Dixit, a dermatologist in Bangalore, at Dr. Dixit Cosmetic Dermatology Clinic, is tailored to the type and severity of psoriasis.
Typically, a mild treatment option is provided first, and if it proves ineffective, a stronger treatment is offered.
Here are the effective treatment options:
- Topical treatments- Mild to moderate psoriasis is treated with products having emollients, soap substitutes, coal tar, cortices-teroids, retin-oids, calcineuin inhibitors, salicylic acid, or Vitamin D analogs to help relieve itching and reduce the skin’s redness.
- Phototherapy - In this therapy, the patient’s skin is exposed to controlled UVB light produced by a medical UV machine. The light can gradually help kill the immune cells that are contributing to psoriasis. It helps slow down the production of skin cells.
- Systemic medications - This type of treatment is usually reserved for severe or life-limiting cases of psoriasis. It includes oral medications or injections that reduce the immune response and relieve psoriasis flare-ups. It's preferred for erythrodermic psoriasis.
What are self-care strategies for managing psoriasis?
- Manage stress
- Use non-scented soaps
- Identify and avoid triggers
- Follow a healthy lifestyle
- Avoid scratching on affected areas
- Ensure controlled exposure to sunlight
- Take daily baths with lukewarm water
- Keep skin well-moisturised/hydrated at all times
- Avoid tight clothing or anything that could irritate the affected skin
- Good mental and physical health is crucial to ensuring a healthy immune system and a reduced risk of joint pain and fatigue.
Why Choose Dr. Dixit Cosmetic Dermatology Clinic Psoriasis Treatment?
Dr. Dixit Cosmetic Dermatology Clinic, situated in the heart of Bangalore, features a friendly and efficient staff that offers the best in skincare at the most competitive prices.
The staff is exceptional, and the services provided are equally impressive. They keep the patient comfortable and well-informed at every step of the treatment.
With the help of the latest techniques and equipment, they ensure optimal treatment outcomes. To schedule your first visit to Dr. Dixit Cosmetic Dermatology Clinic, please get in touch with us online, by phone, or in person at our office.
FAQs on Psoriasis Treatment
What can trigger psoriasis?
Skin injury, smoking, alcohol, puberty, stress, menopause, immune disorders, and certain medications mostly trigger psoriasis.
Can psoriasis be cured?
Psoriasis is a chronic skin condition, and available treatments only help manage psoriasis symptoms and stop flare-ups.
Is psoriasis contagious?
No. Those with psoriasis can’t spread their skin condition to others through skin contact or any other means.
What should I avoid when living with psoriasis?
Avoid or limit foods and drinks that are high in sugars, artificial ingredients, and unhealthy fats. Refrain from smoking and alcohol overconsumption.
Can I consume lithium-based drugs when having psoriasis?
Do not take lithium-based drugs or some anti-inflammatory medicines, which could cause psoriasis to become worse.
How long will it take for me to recover from psoriasis after treatment?
Topical treatments may work within a few weeks, while systemic medications can take several months to show their desired effect. However, some biologics can provide speedy improvements.
Dr. Rasya Dixit has helped many people with their autoimmune skin problems. From providing the best psoriasis treatment in Bangalore to treatment for other general and cosmetic issues, she has helped many achieve healthy and confident skin.
Consult her to get effective treatment for psoriasis management.
