Understanding and Coping with Psoriasis – The Journey to Skin
August 13, 2025
Welcome to today’s article, where I – Dr. Priya Menon, a dermatologist with over 10 years of experience at Apollo Hospitals, Mumbai – will take you on a journey of understanding and dealing with psoriasis, a chronic skin disease that affects millions of people worldwide, including about 2-3% of the Indian population according to statistics from the Indian Dermatological and Vascular Association (IADVL). Psoriasis is not just a cosmetic problem but also has a profound impact on the quality of life, causing red, flaky, and itchy patches of skin. As a specialist who has successfully treated hundreds of patients with this disease, I would like to share my expertise, practical experience, and effective treatment methods based on scientific evidence. Join me as we explore the causes, symptoms, treatments, and prevention tips so you can confidently embark on your skin recovery journey!
What Is Psoriasis? Causes and Symptoms
Psoriasis is an autoimmune disease in which the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy skin cells, leading to excessive skin cell growth. The result is thick, red patches of skin covered with silvery-white scales, often on the elbows, knees, scalp, or back. According to research from the Indian Journal of Dermatology (2022), genetics play a role, with about 30% of patients having a family history of the disease. In addition, triggers such as stress, infection, skin trauma, or cold weather can also trigger flare-ups.
Typical symptoms include:
Red patches of skin with silvery-white scales that flake easily.
Itching or burning sensation, especially when scratched.
Cracking of the skin, sometimes bleeding in severe areas.
In rare cases, the disease can spread or be accompanied by arthritis (psoriatic arthritis).
From my experience at Apollo Hospitals, stress is one of the leading causes of flare-ups in patients in Mumbai – a fast-paced place. If you suspect you have psoriasis, see a dermatologist for a skin biopsy or blood test to rule out conditions similar to eczema.
Psoriasis Treatment
Psoriasis treatment depends on the severity and individual response. Here are the methods I usually use:
1. Topical Treatment
Corticosteroids: Creams or ointments containing corticosteroids such as hydrocortisone help reduce inflammation and itching. I usually prescribe them for mild cases, but they should be used as directed to avoid side effects such as thinning of the skin.
Keratolytics: Salicylic acid or urea help soften and remove scales, often combined with moisturizers.
Vitamin D analogs: Calcipotriol is a popular choice for slowing skin cell growth, which is very effective in plaque psoriasis.
2. Photodynamic Therapy
Photodynamic therapy uses controlled UVB light to slow skin cell growth. Research from IJDVL (2022) shows that phototherapy reduces skin lesions by up to 60% after 12 weeks of treatment. At Apollo Hospitals, I have successfully applied this method to many patients, especially those who do not respond well to topical medications. The procedure requires 2-3 sessions per week for 2-3 months, and patients need to protect their skin from natural sunlight after treatment.
3. Systemic Medications
For severe psoriasis, I may prescribe oral medications such as methotrexate or cyclosporine. These drugs suppress the immune system and are used under close supervision to avoid side effects such as liver damage.
4. Biologics
Biologics such as adalimumab directly target inflammatory cytokines (TNF-alpha, IL-17). They are a first-line option for patients who do not improve with other treatments, with a success rate of up to 80% according to the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology (2021).
Lifestyle Supports Treatment
In addition to medical treatment, lifestyle plays an important role in psoriasis management:
Diet: Reduce inflammatory foods such as sugar and saturated fats, increase omega-3s (salmon, chia seeds) and green vegetables.
Exercise: Yoga or meditation helps reduce stress – a major trigger. I often advise patients to exercise for 30 minutes a day.
Moisturize: Use an unscented moisturizer immediately after bathing to lock in moisture and reduce itching.
Avoid irritation: Avoid harsh soaps, rough clothing, and exposure to chemicals.
Real Life Experience from Dr. Priya Menon
A 35-year-old patient from Mumbai came to me with extensive psoriasis due to work stress. After combining phototherapy and lifestyle modifications (cutting out coffee, practicing yoga), her skin condition improved by 70% in just 10 weeks. This experience reinforced my belief in combining medicine and lifestyle changes for optimal results.
What Is Psoriasis? Causes and Symptoms
Psoriasis is an autoimmune disease in which the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy skin cells, leading to excessive skin cell growth. The result is thick, red patches of skin covered with silvery-white scales, often on the elbows, knees, scalp, or back. According to research from the Indian Journal of Dermatology (2022), genetics play a role, with about 30% of patients having a family history of the disease. In addition, triggers such as stress, infection, skin trauma, or cold weather can also trigger flare-ups.
Typical symptoms include:
Red patches of skin with silvery-white scales that flake easily.
Itching or burning sensation, especially when scratched.
Cracking of the skin, sometimes bleeding in severe areas.
In rare cases, the disease can spread or be accompanied by arthritis (psoriatic arthritis).
From my experience at Apollo Hospitals, stress is one of the leading causes of flare-ups in patients in Mumbai – a fast-paced place. If you suspect you have psoriasis, see a dermatologist for a skin biopsy or blood test to rule out conditions similar to eczema.
Psoriasis Treatment
Psoriasis treatment depends on the severity and individual response. Here are the methods I usually use:
1. Topical Treatment
Corticosteroids: Creams or ointments containing corticosteroids such as hydrocortisone help reduce inflammation and itching. I usually prescribe them for mild cases, but they should be used as directed to avoid side effects such as thinning of the skin.
Keratolytics: Salicylic acid or urea help soften and remove scales, often combined with moisturizers.
Vitamin D analogs: Calcipotriol is a popular choice for slowing skin cell growth, which is very effective in plaque psoriasis.
2. Photodynamic Therapy
Photodynamic therapy uses controlled UVB light to slow skin cell growth. Research from IJDVL (2022) shows that phototherapy reduces skin lesions by up to 60% after 12 weeks of treatment. At Apollo Hospitals, I have successfully applied this method to many patients, especially those who do not respond well to topical medications. The procedure requires 2-3 sessions per week for 2-3 months, and patients need to protect their skin from natural sunlight after treatment.
3. Systemic Medications
For severe psoriasis, I may prescribe oral medications such as methotrexate or cyclosporine. These drugs suppress the immune system and are used under close supervision to avoid side effects such as liver damage.
4. Biologics
Biologics such as adalimumab directly target inflammatory cytokines (TNF-alpha, IL-17). They are a first-line option for patients who do not improve with other treatments, with a success rate of up to 80% according to the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology (2021).
Lifestyle Supports Treatment
In addition to medical treatment, lifestyle plays an important role in psoriasis management:
Diet: Reduce inflammatory foods such as sugar and saturated fats, increase omega-3s (salmon, chia seeds) and green vegetables.
Exercise: Yoga or meditation helps reduce stress – a major trigger. I often advise patients to exercise for 30 minutes a day.
Moisturize: Use an unscented moisturizer immediately after bathing to lock in moisture and reduce itching.
Avoid irritation: Avoid harsh soaps, rough clothing, and exposure to chemicals.
Real Life Experience from Dr. Priya Menon
A 35-year-old patient from Mumbai came to me with extensive psoriasis due to work stress. After combining phototherapy and lifestyle modifications (cutting out coffee, practicing yoga), her skin condition improved by 70% in just 10 weeks. This experience reinforced my belief in combining medicine and lifestyle changes for optimal results.
Author
Doctor Priya Menon
India