Psoriasis is an uncomfortable and unpleasant immune problem that can be extremely unpleasant. There are many different treatments available, starting with simple home care, such as getting more sunlight, and going all the way up to advanced medications, UV treatment, and immune therapy. Over the years, more treatment options have appeared as our understanding of psoriasis has progressed. Let's take a look at some of the newest treatments for psoriasis, how they work, and what you can expect from them.
1. Topical Retinoids
Retinoids are a type of synthetic vitamin A derivative, which slow the growth of skin cells, keep them in a more normal shape, and reduce inflammation. Some types of topical retinoid ointments have produced improvement in as little as a week, and have produced relief for Psoriasis up to twelve weeks after a given treatment. These creams are safe to use on most parts of the body, but do require a doctor's prescription. Unlike steroids, topical retinoid treatments don't thin the skin.
2. Immune Suppressants
Commonly given as an injection or as a pill, immune suppressants reduce the entire immune response, including the one that produces the scaly, painful skin associated with psoriasis. This is a very effective treatment, but it comes with some downsides. The biggest one is that since it's not possible to suppress just the immune reflex that causes psoriasis, infections are a much more serious worry. Even a minor cold or cut could be a big deal.
3. Hot Spring Fish
This recent alternative treatment is a non-medication method that uses a combination of bathing in hot water and nibbling by fish to remove the scaly skin and reduce the chances of it returning. An alternative treatment, it relies on the warmth, natural UV rays, and selenium content in the hot spring. Patients bathe in the spring and allow toothless fish to nibble on their psoriatic skin. The fish will not touch other skin on the body. The treatment takes a long time, and can be quite expensive, though.
4. UV Treatment
Phototherapy has also been used to reduce psoriasis plaques. A high intensity beam of UV light is used several times per week, over several weeks, and can produce remission. This treatment is often used in conjunction with other methods.
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