Psoriasis is a chronic
autoimmune condition that rapidly makes skin cell production leading to skin
scaling, inflammation and redness. It is
followed by red patches that crack and bleed.
The intermittent growth of skin cells deep in the dermis may be for a
few days. But the rapid, overproduction
could add up scales on joints, such as elbows and knees and spread to the
hands, feet, neck, scalp, and face.
Research shows the common two causes of psoriasis could be genetics or the immune system.
In
genetics, the inheritance factor plays
a vital role where people are more likely to develop this condition if
an immediate family member has it.
However, only 2-3% people have this gene influence. We do also find instances of an autoimmune
aliment. Sometimes, white blood cells
known as T cells attack the skin cells by mistake which triggers the rapid
production of skin cells and these new cells pile up to the skin’s surface even
faster. Such collection causes plaque
formation that in turn makes the skin red and inflamed. Most medical therapy doesn’t have a treatment for psoriasis but Ayurveda claims 100% treatment.
Basically we have three categories: topical treatments,
systemic medications, and light therapy.
Topical treatments
Topical creams that contain
steroids or nonsteroidal ointments can be an effective way to control
eczema/dermatitis and many other skin conditions. This aid is beneficial in mild to moderate
skin ailment. These over the counter
solutions like salicylic acid, moisturizers and scale lifters loosen skin
stretch and relieves its pressure points.
Topical steroids can be combined with antibacterial and antifungal
agents and calcipotriol. Such creams and
ointments when applied directly to the skin can help in reducing mild to
moderate psoriasis. Some of the key
treatments included under this heading include topical corticosteroids,
anthralin, topical retinoids, salicylic acid and moisturizer.
Systemic medications
Oral or injection drugs can
be effective in treating people with moderate to severe psoriasis. However, such drugs are open to severe side
effects so doctors generally prescribe short-term courses on this therapy,
usually given in oral or injection form.
The medications that follow in this regimen may include methotrexate,
cyclosporine or retinoids. While
methotrexate suppresses the immune system, it could damage the liver and
reduced production of red and white blood cells. Side effects include hair loss and lip
inflammation from retinoid use, and also risk of birth defects in pregnant
women. Cyclosporine can weaken the
immune system paving way to kidney problems and high blood pressure.
Light therapy
A natural therapy where
ultraviolet (UV) light is used which kills the overactive white blood cells to
stop the rapid cell growth. Both UVA and
UVB light are helpful to control moderate psoriasis. But most people with moderate to severe
psoriasis use combined treatments to reduce symptoms. Such regimen could continue their entire
lives or need manipulation according to skin changes.
Ayurveda
Ayurveda is the science that
has three elemental substances, the doshas (called Vata, Pitta and Kapha) and
strives to maintain a balance of these doshas for a healthy life, while
imbalance results in disease. As Ayurveda
deals with the root cause of psoriasis without any side effects, it is the
desired aide to control the disease.
People having sun deprivation or strep infection on the upper
respiratory tract can have psoriasis.
Detoxifying the body of dooshivishas or low potency poisons can help
relieve this ailment. For this purpose,
Panchakarma therapies are helpful.
Ayurveda classifies food consumption in the right combination and
potentiates avoiding too much intake of seafood, sour or salted food that
trigger the psoriasis inducing pathogenesis.
Stress, alcohol, and tobacco consumption are other causes. These lifestyle changes will help psoriasis
reduce and control.
We find that since Ayurveda
is a safer approach towards psoriatic treatment, it can be the desired way to
getting a good way of life.
