Psoriasis is an autoimmune condition in which your body makes skin cells too quickly, causing them to build up on the skin and form visible, thick, scaly patches. Typically, psoriasis patches appear on your elbow, knees, lower back, and scalp, but they can appear anywhere on the body.
Although there’s no definitive cure for psoriasis, various treatment options can help manage its symptoms and improve your quality of life.
Here’s what you should know about psoriasis treatment and where you can go for psoriasis treatment in Atlanta, GA.
Psoriasis Treatments are Symptomatic
Symptomatic treatment refers to therapeutic approaches that aim to alleviate symptoms and improve the patient’s comfort and quality of life without necessarily addressing the underlying cause of the disease. In the context of psoriasis, symptomatic treatment aims to manage the physical manifestations and discomfort associated with the condition.
One of the main targets of psoriasis treatment is to interrupt the accelerated growth and buildup of skin cells. They are also aimed at removing or reducing the scales or patches that form on the skin.
Psoriasis treatment also improves the appearance of the skin, as psoriasis can significantly impact a person’s self-esteem and overall quality of life. By managing the symptoms effectively, individuals with psoriasis can lead a more comfortable life, free from the physical discomfort and emotional stress often accompanying this condition.
Psoriasis Treatments Options Vary According to Disease Severity
Psoriasis treatment depends on the severity of psoriasis and the response of psoriasis to previous therapies.
In most cases, topical treatments, such as vitamin D analogs, retinoids, calcineurin inhibitors, salicylic acid, coal tar, anthralin, or topical corticosteroids, are used as first-line treatment. Topical treatments may be creams and ointments that are applied to the skin.
Unfortunately, many patients fail to find relief from these topical medications. In such cases, infusion therapy is recommended as an effective alternative.
Infusion Therapy for Psoriasis
Infusion therapies, including Stelara and Infliximab infusions (popularly known as Remicade or Avsola), are designed to mitigate flare-ups and inflammation triggered by psoriasis. Here is a brief overview of infusion therapies for psoriasis treatment.
Stelara Infusion
Stelara is a potent prescription medication administered via infusion or injection. This therapeutic drug has a vital role to play in the management of several conditions, including psoriasis.
The mechanism through which Stelara works is quite specific. It targets and suppresses the activity of certain substances (IL-23 and IL-12) within the body responsible for causing inflammation. Inflammation is a typical response of the body’s immune system to injuries or diseases.
However, in conditions like psoriasis, this response is exaggerated and leads to the symptoms associated with the disease. By curbing these inflammatory substances, Stelara helps reduce the symptoms of psoriasis, providing relief to the patients.
Infliximab (Remicade or Avsola) Infusion
Infliximab, marketed under the brand names Remicade or Avsola, is another potent anti-inflammatory medication commonly employed in treating psoriasis and other similar conditions. Like Stelara, it is also administered through infusion therapy.
Infliximab works by targeting a specific substance in the body known as tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNFα) that causes inflammation. TNFα is a cytokine involved in systemic inflammation produced excessively in individuals with autoimmune conditions like psoriasis.
By blocking the action of TNFα, Infliximab helps reduce inflammation and, subsequently, the symptoms associated with psoriasis.
Self-Care Measures Can Also Help Manage Psoriasis
In addition to infusion therapy, psoriasis treatment may include self-care remedies. These remedies may include:
- Taking a bath daily
- Keeping your skin moist
- Covering the affected areas overnight
- Exposing your skin to natural sunlight to treat it
- Avoiding scratching the skin
- Avoiding psoriasis triggers, such as infections, injuries to the skin, and intense sun exposure
- Maintaining a healthy lifestyle
Psoriasis Treatment Near Me in Atlanta
If you’re ready to take the next step in managing your psoriasis, consider infusion therapy with GI Care Infusion. We offer state-of-the-art facilities and a wide range of infusion therapies designed to treat various conditions, including Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, psoriasis, rheumatoid arthritis, and more.
Our dedicated team will work with you to determine the most suitable therapy for your individual condition and situation. We aim to ensure your experience is seamless and comfortable, focusing on your well-being and recovery.
To learn more or schedule a consultation, call us today at (470) 785-4616 or use the convenient online scheduling option on our website. We look forward to serving you!