Did you know that nearly 3% of adults in the United States are living with psoriasis, with varying degrees of severity? Psoriasis is a chronic skin condition that can take a significant toll on one’s quality of life.
It is a condition in which skin cells build up and form itchy, scaly patches, which can spread across the body. Psoriasis can occur at any age, but most commonly affects adults in their 30s and 40s. Though it is not curable, there are many psoriasis treatment options available to manage and alleviate the symptoms of psoriasis.
In this blog post, we will explore psoriasis and the various options for treating psoriasis with a focus on infusion therapies.
What is Psoriasis?
Psoriasis is a condition where your body’s immune system mistakenly attacks normal skin cells, causing them to grow quickly and pile up on the surface. This results in itchy, red patches covered with silvery scales, usually found on areas like the elbows, knees, and scalp.
There are several types of psoriasis, each with unique signs and symptoms:
- Plaque Psoriasis: The most common form, causing dry, raised, red patches covered with silvery scales.
- Inverse Psoriasis: This type shows up as smooth, shiny red patches in the folds of your skin, like under your armpits or behind your knees.
- Guttate Psoriasis: This type is characterized by small, dot-like spots and often starts in childhood or young adulthood.
- Pustular Psoriasis: A rare form that causes blisters filled with non-infectious pus surrounded by red skin.
- Erythrodermic Psoriasis: The least common type, but very serious, causing wide areas of your skin to become red and inflamed.
- Sebopsoriasis: This type combines features of seborrheic dermatitis and psoriasis, producing red patches with yellowish scales.
- Nail Psoriasis: This affects your fingernails and toenails, causing pitting, abnormal nail growth, and discoloration.
Symptoms of Psoriasis
The symptoms can vary depending on the type of psoriasis an adult have. Common symptoms include:
- Red, thick and scaly patches of skin
- Dry, cracked skin that may bleed
- Itching, burning, or soreness
- Thickened, pitted, or ridged nails
Causes of Psoriasis
Psoriasis is caused by an overactive immune system. Certain things can trigger a flare-up, including:
- Stress. High-stress levels can cause psoriasis to flare up or even appear for the first time.
- Infections. Strep throat or skin infections can also cause psoriasis flare-ups.
- Skin injuries. Cuts, scrapes, bug bites, severe sunburns, or other skin injuries can lead to a psoriasis flare-up.
- Certain medications. Some drugs, including lithium and high blood pressure medications, can trigger psoriasis or make it worse.
- Weather changes. Cold, dry weather can also worsen psoriasis.
Psoriasis Treatment
While there’s no cure for psoriasis, various treatments can help control the symptoms. Topical medications and creams are often recommended for psoriasis treatment, but they may not provide relief for all patients.
For individuals who find it challenging to get relief from their symptoms, infusion therapies offer a promising alternative. In addition, lifestyle modifications can also help manage psoriasis.
Infusion Therapies
Infusion therapies for psoriasis and other autoimmune conditions include Stelara® infusions and infliximab (commonly known as Remicade® or Avsola®) infusions. These infusions aim to reduce flare-ups and inflammation caused by psoriasis.
Stelara®
Stelara® is a prescription medication that can be administered via infusion or injection. It’s used to treat conditions including psoriasis, reducing the activity of certain substances in the body that cause inflammation.
Infliximab (Remicade® or Avsola®)
Infliximab, also known as Remicade® or Avsola®, is an anti-inflammatory medication commonly used to treat psoriasis and other conditions. It works by blocking the action of a substance in your body that causes inflammation.
The frequency of these infusion therapy treatments depends on the severity of the condition and the type of medication recommended by the physician.
Lifestyle Modifications
While not considered a drug treatment option, making certain lifestyle changes can help alleviate the symptoms of psoriasis. This may include avoiding psoriasis triggers such as:
- Heavy alcohol consumption
- Severe sunburns
- Bug bites
- Cold, dry weather conditions
- Cuts and scrapes
- Skin infections or other infections like strep throat
- Smoking
- The use of certain prescription medications
Psoriasis Treatment in Atlanta
While psoriasis can be a challenging condition to live with, there are effective treatment options available. Infusion therapies, such as those offered by GI Care Infusion, provide promising results, helping patients reduce inflammation and flare-ups.
If you or a loved one is suffering from psoriasis, consider reaching out to our healthcare provider here at GI Care Infusion to discuss treatment options.
To learn more about infusion therapies and psoriasis treatment, contact GI Care Infusion at (470) 785-4616, or schedule an appointment online. We look forward to serving you!
