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Why Treating Psoriasis Requires More Than Skin Care

November 28, 2024

The Reasons Behind Not Treating Psoriasis That Go Beyond Your Skin

Introduction
Psoriasis is often perceived as just a skin condition, with visible symptoms such as scales, plaques, and pustules being its most prominent markers (Lebwohl, 2003). However, the impact of psoriasis goes much deeper, affecting overall health and potentially leading to serious complications if left untreated (Gelfand et al., 2006). At EliteAyurveda, we emphasize the importance of treating psoriasis holistically to address not just its visible manifestations but also the underlying systemic issues that can affect your quality of life.

Why Psoriasis Isn’t Curable

Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune condition primarily influenced by:

Genetic Predisposition: A hereditary tendency to develop autoimmune diseases (Bowcock & Krueger, 2005).
Immune System Dysregulation: A hyperactive immune system that mistakenly attacks healthy cells (Nestle et al., 2009).
Environmental Triggers: Factors such as stress, infections, and certain medications that aggravate symptoms (Parisi et al., 2013).

While there’s no definitive cure in any medical system, effective management and prolonged remission are achievable with the right approach (Menter et al., 2008).

The Importance of Treatment

Untreated psoriasis is not just a cosmetic issue—it can lead to significant health complications, including:

1. Psoriatic Arthritis (PsA)

Affects approximately 30% of psoriasis patients (Gladman et al., 2005).
Symptoms include joint pain, stiffness, and inflammation, potentially leading to permanent joint damage if untreated (Mease, 2005).

2. Comorbidities Linked to Psoriasis

Cardiovascular Problems: Increased risk of heart disease and stroke (Gelfand et al., 2006).
Diabetes and Metabolic Disorders: Psoriasis often coexists with obesity and metabolic syndrome (Neimann et al., 2006).
Liver and Kidney Conditions: Prolonged inflammation can impair organ function (Chiu et al., 2017).
Mental Health Concerns: Depression and anxiety are common due to the emotional toll of living with a visible, chronic condition (Kimball et al., 2005).

These systemic effects highlight the need for comprehensive treatment strategies that go beyond symptom management.

Conventional Treatment vs. Ayurvedic Approach

Conventional Treatments

While conventional therapies can provide symptom relief, they often come with limitations:

Heavy Dependence on Medications: Use of immunosuppressants, biologics, and antibiotics can lead to side effects such as infections, organ toxicity, and drug resistance (Menter et al., 2008).
Symptom-Focused: Treatments like corticosteroids and biologics primarily suppress visible symptoms without addressing the root cause (Parisi et al., 2013).
Long-Term Risks: Prolonged reliance on these therapies can weaken the immune system and lead to dependency (Menter et al., 2008).

Ayurvedic Alternative

Ayurveda offers a holistic, individualized approach to psoriasis management, focusing on:

Detoxification (Shodhana): Removing toxins (Ama) that contribute to systemic inflammation (Mukherjee & Wahile, 2006).
Dosha Balancing: Restoring harmony in Pitta and Kapha, the primary doshas involved in psoriasis (Lad, 2002).
Lifestyle Modifications: Incorporating stress reduction, dietary adjustments, and mindfulness practices to maintain long-term remission (Sharma et al., 2007).

Our Approach to Prolonged Remission

Step 1: Addressing Root Causes

We begin by identifying the triggers and underlying imbalances that led to psoriasis. This includes a detailed evaluation of the patient’s constitution (Prakriti) and lifestyle habits (Sharma et al., 2007).

Step 2: Stabilizing the Body’s Response

Using personalized herbal medications and dietary changes, we help the body regulate its immune response, reducing inflammation and flare-ups (Mukherjee & Wahile, 2006).

Step 3: Long-Term Maintenance

To sustain remission, we focus on:

Encouraging adherence to lifestyle changes.
Recommending preventive herbal medications.
Offering ongoing support to keep patients motivated and educated about their condition.

This multi-layered approach ensures that we focus on prolonged remission rather than short-term symptomatic relief.

Detoxification and External Therapies

Body Detoxification:
- Specialized external Ayurvedic therapies cleanse the body of toxins and reduce inflammation (Lad, 2002).
- Herbal preparations promote cellular regeneration and skin health (Pole, 2013).
External Applications:
- Personalized oils and ointments help heal lesions, reduce redness, and soothe irritation (Pole, 2013).
- Therapies aim to restore skin health while preventing future flare-ups.

Why Long-Term Care Matters

Untreated or poorly managed psoriasis can worsen over time, leading to:

Increased severity of plaques and lesions (Lebwohl, 2003).
Higher risk of developing comorbidities such as PsA, diabetes, and heart disease (Gelfand et al., 2006).
Emotional distress due to visible symptoms and societal stigma (Kimball et al., 2005).

Takeaway: Ignoring psoriasis can have far-reaching consequences. Effective treatment not only alleviates symptoms but also protects against these long-term risks.

Redefining Psoriasis Reversal

While “reversal” is a term often associated with curing psoriasis, we define it differently at EliteAyurveda. For us, reversal means achieving a prolonged remission state where symptoms are minimal, flare-ups are rare, and the patient’s quality of life is significantly improved (Sharma et al., 2007).

This state of remission is achieved through:

Personalized treatment plans.
Long-term lifestyle adherence.
Preventive care that keeps psoriasis under control.

A Patient’s Journey with EliteAyurveda

Profile:

Age: 40
Condition: Severe plaque psoriasis with PsA symptoms.
Challenges: Dependency on corticosteroids and biologics with diminishing results.

Ayurvedic Treatment Plan:

Detoxification: Weekly therapies to cleanse the blood and improve liver function (Lad, 2002).
Herbal Medications: Tailored formulations to balance Pitta and enhance immunity (Pole, 2013).
Dietary Adjustments: Anti-inflammatory foods such as fresh vegetables and hydrating drinks (Frawley, 2000).
Stress Management: Yoga and meditation to reduce emotional triggers (Sharma et al., 2007).

Outcome:

Within 3 months: Significant reduction in plaques and joint pain.
Within 6 months: Sustained remission with no dependency on corticosteroids.
After 1 year: Psoriasis and PsA symptoms under control, with improved overall health.

From the Doctor’s Desk: Final Thoughts

Psoriasis is not just a skin condition—it’s a systemic issue that requires a systemic solution. At EliteAyurveda, we combine ancient Ayurvedic wisdom with modern insights to provide personalized care that goes beyond temporary relief. Our goal is to empower patients to achieve long-term remission and lead fulfilling, confident lives (Sharma et al., 2007).

GET IN TOUCH

Schedule a Visit

Take the First Step Toward Healing

You don’t have to live with psoriasis alone.
📞 Contact us at +91 8884722246
🌐 Visit our website: www.eliteayurveda.com

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