Understanding Psoriasis: Causes, Symptoms & Treatments

 Psoriasis is a common yet often misunderstood chronic skin condition that affects millions of people worldwide. Characterized by red, scaly patches on the skin, psoriasis is not just a cosmetic issue — it is an autoimmune disorder that can significantly impact a person’s quality of life. This article provides a clear and helpful overview of psoriasis, including its causes, symptoms, and available treatment options.

What is Psoriasis?

Psoriasis is a long-term skin condition that occurs when the immune system sends faulty signals that speed up the skin cell lifecycle. Instead of taking weeks for skin cells to mature and shed, this process happens within days in people with psoriasis. The result is a buildup of cells on the skin’s surface, forming thick, red patches with silvery scales.

This condition is not contagious, but it is chronic and recurring, often going through cycles of flare-ups and remission.

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Common Causes of Psoriasis

While the exact cause of psoriasis is not fully understood, several factors are believed to contribute to its development:

• Genetics: A family history of psoriasis increases the risk.
• Immune System Dysfunction: Psoriasis is an autoimmune condition where the immune system attacks healthy skin cells.
• Triggers: Common triggers include stress, infections, skin injuries, certain medications, smoking, and alcohol consumption.

Types of Psoriasis

There are several types of psoriasis, including:

1. Plaque Psoriasis: The most common form, with raised red patches covered in silvery scales.
2. Guttate Psoriasis: Small, drop-shaped sores on the trunk, limbs, or scalp.
3. Inverse Psoriasis: Shiny red patches in skin folds, such as under the arms or breasts.
4. Pustular Psoriasis: White pustules surrounded by red skin.
5. Erythrodermic Psoriasis: A rare, severe form causing widespread redness, scaling, and pain.

Symptoms of Psoriasis

Symptoms vary by type and severity but commonly include:

• Red patches of skin with thick, silvery scales
• Dry, cracked skin that may bleed
• Itching, burning, or soreness
• Thickened or ridged nails
• Joint pain in some cases (psoriatic arthritis)

Treatment Options for Psoriasis

While there is no known cure, various treatments help manage psoriasis and reduce flare-ups:

1. Topical Treatments

• Corticosteroid creams
• Vitamin D analogs (like calcipotriol)
• Salicylic acid
• Coal tar formulations

2. Phototherapy

Controlled exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light under medical supervision can slow the growth of skin cells. Narrow-band UVB is the most commonly used light therapy.

3. Systemic Medications

For moderate to severe psoriasis, oral or injectable medications may be prescribed:

• Methotrexate
• Cyclosporine
• Biologic drugs (e.g., adalimumab, etanercept)

4. Lifestyle Management

• Regular moisturizing
• Stress reduction
• Avoiding alcohol and smoking
• Eating a balanced, anti-inflammatory diet

Laser Psoriasis Treatment in Mumbai

Mumbai is emerging as a hub for advanced psoriasis care, including laser and light-based therapies:

Excimer Laser Therapy (308 nm)

• Many Mumbai clinics offer excimer laser treatment, which emits a focused 308 nm wavelength UVB light to target affected areas.
• Unlike full-body phototherapy, this laser focuses only on the patches — minimizing exposure to healthy skin and offering quicker results with fewer sessions.
• Popular clinics like The Esthetic Clinics, Claro Clinic, Saavya Dermatology, and Auro Skin Clinic provide these services.

Narrow-Band UVB Therapy

• Narrow-band UVB light booths are available in several dermatology centers. These are effective for treating widespread psoriasis and are often combined with topical therapies.

Benefits of Laser Psoriasis Treatment

• Non-invasive and painless
• Targets specific lesions
• Fewer side effects compared to oral medication
• Suitable for patients who do not respond well to topical creams

If you’re in Mumbai and dealing with localized or stubborn psoriasis, consulting a dermatologist about laser therapy can be a highly effective option.

Conclusion

Psoriasis is more than just a skin condition — it is a lifelong immune disorder that requires attention and care. Thanks to advances in dermatology, individuals have a wide range of options to manage it effectively, including laser psoriasis treatments in Mumbai. If you or a loved one is dealing with psoriasis, speak with a qualified dermatologist to determine the best approach for long-term relief.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. Always consult a licensed dermatologist or healthcare provider for professional advice and diagnosis.