Whether you are new to psoriasis or someone who has been burdened by the condition for many years, you have likely been given the same suggested remedies time and time again, despite the uniqueness of your condition.
Why? Because the research around psoriasis has been limited for some time. Despite the many different types of psoriasis and many different ways it can affect people, there’s little new knowledge about this chronic condition. Have you noticed that psoriasis research doesn’t quite make headlines like cancer or other widespread conditions? Psoriasis is often forgotten alongside other conditions and illnesses.
A New Era is Here
However, things are changing for psoriasis sufferers. In the past few years — as recently as 2016 — psoriasis has gained more and more attention among doctors and health professionals.
In 2016, the National Psoriasis Foundation developed the very first treatment goals for doctors. Designed to help doctors talk to, assess, and treat people with psoriasis, these goals set new guidelines and offer new possibilities for those who are longing for relief.
Additionally, more and more research is happening. Psoriasis is now getting the attention it deserves. In 2o14, the National Psoriasis Foundation set a goal to double the amount of money spent on psoriasis research to $18 million by 2019. The foundation also plans to increase the number of scientists who are dedicated to studying psoriasis by 50 percent. With progress happening around these goals, psoriasis is seeing new emerging research from just the past few years.
And these positive changes are already showing the power of new research. The most research into the spectrum of autoimmune diseases has yielded new knowledge about the immune system as a whole, making way for more discovery.
The Future: Biologics, Laser Therapy, and Advanced Drugs
The biggest benefit of psoriasis research has been new breakthroughs. One of the newest breakthroughs is biologics, or drugs made from living cells. With biologics, lab-manufactured proteins or antibodies are injected into the skin or bloodstream. And once inside the body, the drug blocks some part of the altered immune system that contributes to psoriasis. Some patients, Psoriasis.org reports, see their symptoms disappear within just three months.
Another symptom management technique found to be effective involves lasers. These focused beams of light provide a new twist on phototherapy, concentrating on affected areas. WebMD reports that laser therapy sends targeted ultraviolet light on areas of the skin and allows many psoriasis sufferers to see faster relief and results than traditional light therapy options — making lasers a promising option.
Are you taking drugs for psoriasis? If so, are you taking the right ones? You should know which medications are the most cutting edge, and which come with as few side effects as possible. For example, Otezla can have fewer side effects than the typically-prescribed drugs and requires less monitoring for some individuals, according to Psoriasis.org.
These are just some of the top recent findings, but there are many more out there to still be researched.
Where to Find the Best Information
Since most doctors are not psoriasis specialists, they may not know about many of these new, advanced procedures and medicines. They may only know about the management options that have been around for decades — but the newest options may be even better for your condition. That’s why it’s important to stay informed.
So if you have psoriasis or know someone who does, do not just sit back and let your doctor determine your future. Because they might not be giving you the best, most recent advice available.
It’s important that you do your homework to find the best option specifically for you – especially if you’ve been seeing the same doctor for years or you’ve only been diagnosed by one doctor.
Interested in learning more about the latest information on the condition? Start a search to get more information today.
