From the Skin to the Veins: 3 Psoriasis Treatments

From the Skin to the Veins  Psoriasis Treatments

Never take a pill, apply a lotion, and undergo treatment for psoriasis without your doctor’s recommendation! Psoriasis is a lifelong skin condition with physical symptoms and a psychological toll that can be burdensome.

You and your doctor will discuss the type and number of treatments necessary in your case. You may, for example, respond to topical treatments in case of a mild flare-up (i.e., less than 3% of your body is covered). You’ll receive injections and intravenous therapies (i.e., more than 10% affected).  

Topical Treatments and Occlusion

Your doctor will recommend over-the-counter topical treatments as the first defense line for mild psoriasis. But you may also need prescription ointments and creams with more potent active ingredients. They will help slow down skin cells’ abnormal growth and reduce swelling.  

Wrapping the part of your body with plastic wrap, cotton socks, or nylon fabric where an ointment is applied should be avoided unless your doctor says it’s okay. Known as occlusion, it may or may not make your treatment better. In some cases, it can worsen your symptoms.

Oral Medications for Psoriasis

Your doctor will likely prescribe oral medications if topical ointments and creams aren’t working as expected. These medications work on a deeper level as they go into your bloodstream. Once in there, their active ingredients can do their job.

These medications work by preventing flares and clearing up the skin of the red swelling, among other symptoms in moderate to severe psoriasis. Alongside topical treatments, they get better and faster results.  

Psoriasis Injections and IV Treatments

Biologics are among the most potent medicines to treat moderate to severe psoriasis. These work by blocking specific parts of the body’s immune system that aid in the condition’s progression.

These are two ways to take the drugs:

  • Injections that you can administer on your own at home
  • Intravenous treatments (i.e., directly into a vein) that only a doctor should help. These include adalimumab (Humira) and infliximab (Remicade).

The oral, injectable, and intravenous treatments can cause serious side effects, such as:

  • Kidney issues
  • Liver issues
  • Certain cancers
  • Infections

You must work closely with your doctor to minimize the risk and maximize the rewards from adequately using these medications.  

Other things to try

And don’t forget to make lifestyle changes that can reduce the risk of another flare-up. For example, you may consider water therapy, effective stress management, and complementary therapies.