Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune disease that causes red, scaly patches to form on the skin. It is a complex condition with no one-size-fits-all cure. However, there are a number of treatments available that can help to manage the symptoms and improve quality of life.
Functional Medicine Approach
Functional medicine practitioners believe that psoriasis is caused by a combination of factors, including genetics, diet, and environmental triggers. They focus on identifying and addressing the root causes of the disease in order to achieve long-term remission.
Some common functional medicine approaches to treating psoriasis include:
- Dietary changes: A healthy diet is essential for overall health and well-being. However, certain foods can trigger psoriasis flares in some people. Functional medicine practitioners may recommend eliminating or reducing inflammatory foods such as gluten, dairy, and processed foods from the diet.
- Supplementation: Functional medicine practitioners may also recommend supplements to help reduce inflammation, improve gut health, and support the immune system. Some common supplements used to treat psoriasis include vitamin D, omega-3 fatty acids, and probiotics.
- Stress management: Stress can trigger psoriasis flares in some people. Functional medicine practitioners may recommend stress management techniques such as yoga, meditation, and acupuncture.
Modern Medicine Approach
Modern medicine offers a variety of treatments for psoriasis, including:
- Topical treatments: Topical treatments are applied directly to the skin and can help to reduce inflammation and scaling. Common topical treatments for psoriasis include corticosteroids, retinoids, and vitamin D analogs.
- Phototherapy: Phototherapy involves exposing the skin to ultraviolet (UV) light. UV light can help to slow the growth of skin cells and reduce inflammation.
- Systemic medications: Systemic medications are taken orally or injected and work throughout the body to reduce inflammation and suppress the immune system. Common systemic medications for psoriasis include methotrexate, cyclosporine, and biologics.
Which Approach is Right for You?
The best approach to treating psoriasis will vary depending on the individual's severity of symptoms, response to previous treatments, and overall health. Some people may find that a combination of functional medicine and modern medicine approaches is most effective.
If you have psoriasis, talk to your doctor about the best treatment options for you. They can help you develop a personalized treatment plan that meets your individual needs.
Here are some additional tips for managing psoriasis:
- Avoid scratching the affected areas, as this can irritate the skin and make psoriasis worse.
- Keep the skin hydrated using a moisturizer that is fragrance-free and hypoallergenic.
- Take warm baths or showers to help relieve itching and scaling.
- Wear loose-fitting, comfortable clothing made from breathable fabrics.
- Manage stress levels through exercise, yoga, meditation, or other relaxation techniques.
If you have any questions or concerns about psoriasis, please talk to your doctor.