Treatment of Psoriasis
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The first step on the road to treatment is to see a doctor who can diagnose psoriasis. Once you have been diagnosed, you and your doctor can work together to develop a treatment plan.
Though there is no known cure for psoriasis, there are many treatment options that can reduce the symptoms associated with the disease. It is helpful to remember that no single treatment works for everyone. The approach to psoriasis treatment depends on the type, location and severity of your condition, as well as your age and medical history.
Together, you and your doctor can find a treatment that works for you. It's important to stick to the regimen you and your doctor have chosen to get the best results from treatment.
Many people with psoriasis can be treated by a doctor (GP). However, your doctor may refer you to a dermatologist (skin specialist) if symptoms are severe or have not responded well to previous treatments.
In order to diagnose psoriasis, a health care provider simply examines the affected skin. He/she can also examine a piece of skin under the microscope (a procedure called a biopsy), but this is not usually necessary. Your doctor will be able to assess the severity of your disease and help you determine a treatment plan.
Current treatment options fall into three broad categories. Click to find out more about each category:
Many patients complement conventional treatments with alternative therapies20.
As more people have become active partners in the treatment of their psoriasis, interest has grown in practices and products that may not be considered part of contemporary allopathic medicine. There are several options available:
- Nutrition (Vitamins, supplements)
- Herbal medicine
- Acupuncture
- Massage
- Biofeedback
- Yoga, or stress reduction techniques.
Check with your doctor before beginning any new treatment. Always make sure your doctor is aware of any natural or herbal product (including vitamins and supplements) you are using, as some may interact with prescription medications.