Psoriasis Medications from a Traditional Western Medication Treatment
Treating psoriasis with medication begins with understanding what Psoriasis is. The simplest way to describe Psoriasis is that Psoriasis is a disease that results in red inflamed colored lesions on the skins. These lesions multiply and then scale over in a scab like formation that is silver in color. These lesions itch, causing extreme discomfort to those who suffer from them. Their appearance can also be alarming to those who suffer from Psoriasis.
Psoriasis is a genetically inherited disease. It is not something that you can catch from another individual who suffers from Psoriasis. Physical contact will not result in Psoriasis. Most recently, Western medicine has classified Psoriasis as an autoimmune disorder. Psoriasis cannot be cured at this time. Those who suffer from this disease will find that it comes and goes in cycles that range from a few outbreaks of lesions to a complete outbreak on most of their skin.
Now that you have a small introduction into what Psoriasis is, here are some of the more common traditional Western medications used to treat Psoriasis.
UVA Light is a common means of treating Psoriasis. Patients are treated with medication that they receive orally or topically. Some patients make soak in a liquid solution of medication. After receiving the medication the patient is exposed to a dose of light therapy. This light therapy is given under the supervision of a doctor due to the risks associated with it. Light therapy can lead to skin cancer and cataracts. In an attempt to prevent this side effect, all patients wear glasses to protect their eyes. Exposure to the UVA light is limited to decrease risk of skin cancer. Unfortunately, many patients find that if they discontinue their UVA Light treatment that their Psoriasis will return. Most patients have to be treated an average of three times a week to prevent the return of their Psoriasis.
Oral Prescriptions are used most often in cases of severe Psoriasis. Most oral prescriptions for Psoriasis will have a serious list of side effects. These are a last choice for a patient who is in need of immediate care. Methotrexate , Tegison, and Cyclosporines are a few different types of oral prescriptions used to treat Psoriasis. Side effects fro these different medications range from liver and lung damage to hair loss and hepatitis. Clearly these are a last resort.
Topical medications are helpful and don’t have the serious side effects that Oral Prescriptions can have. Some topical medications come in the forma of shampoos. These shampoos contain coal tar. Coal tar relieves itching and reduces scaling in minor outbreaks of Psoriasis. Topical medications containing coal tar can be found as over the counter products or prescription medication. A common prescription topical medication is Exorex. It contains coal tar. The downside to these topical medications is small compared to the oral prescriptions. Fr the most part they ar e just a little messy and have an unpleasant odor. Some topical medications can also stain clothing, so beware.
Remember, these are only a few types of Psoriasis medications. There are many other options, so it is best to do thorough research about the treatment of Psoriasis. Consult with your doctor and educate yourself. Psoriasis can be treated to create a better quality of life.