Psoriasis treatment is aimed at calming down the overactive immune cells that are causing inflammation and rapid cell growth of the skin, and in some cases pain, swelling and damage in and around the joints. Once the skin is clear or almost clear, maintenance treatment may be required to reduce the frequency and severity of subsequent flare-ups.
While the specific treatment plan varies for each individual, depending on the type and severity of the psoriasis, involvement of other organ systems, and concurrent medical conditions, main treatment options include:
– slow down or normalise excessive cell reproduction as well as reduce inflammation:
Moisturizers, topical creams and ointments e.g. topical steroids, coal tar, vitamin D analogues and combination creams
Phototherapy and photochemotherapy: use of short bursts of specialised light to suppress immune cells in the skin, sometimes in combination with oral medications that increase sensitivity to light.
– target and block overactive immune cells to slow or stop processes that cause joint damage:
Traditional systemic therapy: these include oral retinoids, and immunosuppressive medication that suppress the activity of immune cells in a non-targeted manner
Injectable biological therapy (“biologics”): protein-based injections that target and block certain parts of the immune system that are overactivated in psoriasis, and are dramatically more effective than traditional oral medications with less side effects.
As the advanced and most effective mode of psoriasis treatment for those that do not respond well to conventional therapy, or those with nail or joint involvement, biologics reduce inflammation by targeting and inhibiting overactive immune cells in the body, without significantly affecting the body’s ability to resist infection or affecting the liver or kidney function. The newest biologics are able to clear or almost clear psoriasis in a large proportion of sufferers and has raised the bar for psoriasis management.
In addition to seeking medical treatments, making changes to your lifestyle is also crucial for keeping your condition in check. Avoid excessive drinking and smoking, and manage your stress levels—be aware of your own stressors.
If you are struggling with day-to-day life with psoriasis, seek early treatment to prevent your condition from worsening over time.
Psoriasis is also known to cause an increased risk of associated conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, obesity and heart disease, further underscoring the importance of getting it under control as early as possible.
Evidence has shown that people who treat their psoriasis effectively can also lower their risk of other comorbidities.
Call us at 6733 3629 to schedule an assessment.
Listening actively to your concerns, Dr Wong will work closely with you to ascertain the triggers of your psoriasis condition. We believe that regaining your skin’s health and comfort is key to your personal well-being.
Call us at 6733 3629 or drop us a message here.
3 Mt Elizabeth #07-09, Mt Elizabeth Medical Centre, Singapore 228510
Tel : (65) 6733 3629 | Fax : (65) 6733 3628
Email: [email protected]