1. So You've Got Psoriasis
Many individuals with psoriasis search for psoriasis cures, but the unfortunate reality is they don't exist. Once an individual experiences psoriasis, it's likely he or she will experience future flareups, even after experiencing complete remission. Psoriasis often resembles eczema, so it can be difficult even for qualified doctors to accurately diagnose. However, the majority of most eczema cases occur during childhood, and psoriasis usually doesn't begin until early adulthood or later.
2. Conventional Medicine is Convenient
Using treatments the conventional medical community offers for psoriasis is a great option for many individuals because they're widely available and usually covered by insurance. You can apply prescription creams directly to your psoriasis patches and can help minimize the redness and irritation. Keep in mind, though, that some prescription psoriasis creams contain steroids, which can thin the skin permanently. Conventional treatments are usually those most widely tested as well, although they're not without side effects.
3. Alternative Medicine is Becoming More Mainstream
Alternative medicine specialties such as acupuncture can be used to treat psoriasis and alleviate the symptoms. Many individuals opt for natural treatments after trying prescription medication and not experiencing any improvement. Acupuncture is virtually free of side effects, although individuals on blood thinners or who have bleeding disorders shouldn't try acupuncture. The only downside is that acupuncture isn't covered by many health insurance providers, although it's usually reimbursable through health spending accounts.
4. Several Supplements Offer Psoriasis Relief
Psoriasis patients can benefit from a variety of over-the-counter supplements including zinc, vitamin D and evening primrose oil. Several studies have shown that patients with psoriasis are often deficient in zinc and vitamin D. Supplementing can alleviate psoriasis symptoms and in some cases provide complete relief for a period of time, although they won't "cure" psoriasis. Evening primrose oil contains essential fatty acids that can reduce the inflammation and redness commonly associated with psoriasis.
5. Keep a Journal
Write down any treatments that you try. Include a written description of your symptoms and note whether or not you experienced any improvement. The more detail, the better. Refer back to your journal during future flareups so you can easily identify what treatments provided you with the best results. If you've exhausted all over-the-counter and prescription treatments without much relief, you might consider aggressive diet measures such as following a raw foods diet or even trying a juice fast or water fast for a couple of days. Fasting is controversial, but anecdotally it has offered relief to many psoriasis patients.
