Psoriasis is a common skin condition that causes red, itchy, and scaly patches to appear all over the body. It is more common in adults than children and usually starts between the ages of 20 and 30. The most common type of psoriasis is plaque psoriasis, which is characterized by raised, red patches of skin covered by silvery scales.
The exact cause of psoriasis is unknown, but it is thought to be related to an immune system problem. While there is no cure for psoriasis, there are many treatments available that can help manage the condition and reduce its symptoms.
In this article, we will discuss some of them.
Overview of Psoriasis Treatment in Adults
Basic treatments for psoriasis include topical treatments, light therapy, systemic medications, and biological agents. Each type of treatment has its own benefits and potential risks.
1) Topical treatments
Topical treatments are applied directly to the skin and can include creams, ointments, and lotions. These treatments are generally used for mild to moderate cases of psoriasis and can provide relief from itching, scaling, and redness.
They work by decreasing inflammation, suppressing the immune system, and slowing the growth of skin cells. Examples of topical treatments include corticosteroids, calcineurin inhibitors, retinoids, salicylic acid, and coal tar.
They should be applied as directed by the doctor and can take several weeks to take effect. Potential side effects may include skin irritation, burning, or stinging.