Psoriasis Treatment in India for Bangladeshi Patients

What is Psoriasis?

Psoriasis is a chronic (long-lasting) skin condition that causes cells to build up rapidly on the skin’s surface, leading to thick, scaly patches, redness, and inflammation. It's an autoimmune disease, meaning the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy skin cells.

Psoriasis is not contagious. It commonly affects areas such as the scalp, elbows, knees, and lower back. The condition tends to come and go in cycles, with periods of flare-ups followed by times of improvement. Triggers that may worsen psoriasis include stress, infections, cold weather, injuries to the skin, and certain medications.

Some people call it “skin allergy,” “rash problem,” or just “itchy skin disease.” These are common terms patients and families may use when asking for help. However, psoriasis is not just a skin issue; it is a long-term autoimmune disease.

The meaning of Psoriasis in Bengali is ‘chormorog’- skin disease or as ‘chamrar rog - disease of the skin.

Why Do People Need Treatment for Psoriasis?

People need treatment for psoriasis to reduce itching, control flare-ups, and protect their skin. Psoriasis is a long-term disease that affects the skin and sometimes the joints. It can cause pain, discomfort, and even emotional stress. Early treatment helps manage the condition and improve quality of life.

Common Causes of Psoriasis

Psoriasis happens when the immune system overreacts and makes skin cells grow too fast. This leads to thick, scaly patches on the skin. While the exact cause is not fully known, some triggers and risk factors have been identified.

Here are the most common causes and triggers:

• Family history - Psoriasis often runs in families. If your parents or siblings have it, your risk is higher.
• Immune system problems - Psoriasis is an autoimmune condition. The body attacks healthy skin cells by mistake.
• Infections - Illnesses like strep throat or skin infections can trigger psoriasis in some people.
• Stress - Mental or physical stress can make psoriasis worse or bring on a flare-up.
• Cold weather - Dry air and lack of sunlight can dry out the skin and worsen symptoms.
• Skin injuries - Cuts, burns, or insect bites may cause new patches to appear (called the Koebner phenomenon).
• Certain medicines - Drugs like beta-blockers, lithium, or anti-malarial medicines can trigger or worsen psoriasis.
• Smoking and alcohol - These habits increase the risk and severity of the disease.

Symptoms of Psoriasis

Psoriasis symptoms can vary depending on the type and severity, but the most common signs include:

• Red patches of skin covered with thick, silvery-white scales
  
• Dry, cracked skin that may bleed or feel sore
  
• Itching, burning, or stinging in the affected areas
  
• Thickened, pitted, or ridged nails (nail psoriasis)
  
• Stiff or painful joints (seen in psoriatic arthritis)
  
• Flare-ups that come and go - symptoms may improve and then return

These symptoms usually appear on the scalp, elbows, knees, lower back, and nails, but they can show up anywhere on the body.

Appearance of Psoriasis

Psoriasis leads to the appearance of distinct patches on the skin, which are often red, inflamed, and covered with silvery-white scales. The pictures of psoriasis clearly show these common symptoms. These patches can vary in size, ranging from small spots to large areas of the body. The appearance of psoriasis can differ based on the type and severity of the condition.

Types of Psoriasis Appearance:

• Plaque Psoriasis: The most common form, where thick, raised, red patches are covered with silvery-white scales.
  
• Guttate Psoriasis: Small, drop-shaped spots on the skin, often triggered by an infection.
  
• Inverse Psoriasis: Bright red, shiny lesions that appear in folds of the skin, such as under the arms or in the groin area.
  
• Pustular Psoriasis: White pustules (blisters filled with pus) surrounded by red skin.
  
• Erythrodermic Psoriasis: A rare form that can cover most of the body with red, peeling, and inflamed skin, often causing severe itching and pain.

A few pictures of Psoriasis are:

Caption: Close-up picture of psoriasis showing red, scaly patches on the skin.

When Do These Symptoms Lead to Treatment?

Symptoms of psoriasis should lead to treatment as soon as they appear. Psoriasis is a long-term condition, and early treatment helps control flare-ups and prevent skin damage. Ignoring the signs can make the condition worse and harder to manage.

Doctors may start treatment after:

• A physical examination of the skin, scalp, or nails
  
• Reviewing the patient’s symptoms and family history
  
• Skin biopsy (in some cases) to confirm psoriasis
  
• Blood tests (if joint pain is present) to rule out other conditions
  
• Checking for triggers like stress, infections, or medications

Ways to get rid of Psoriasis

There is no permanent cure for psoriasis, but the symptoms can be controlled and reduced with proper care. Treatment helps to clear the skin, ease discomfort, and prevent flare-ups.

Here are the most effective ways to manage psoriasis:

1. Topical treatments

Used for mild to moderate psoriasis. These are applied directly to the skin.

• Corticosteroid creams or ointments
  
• Vitamin D analogues (e.g., calcipotriol)
  
• Coal tar and salicylic acid
  
• Moisturisers to reduce dryness and scaling
  

2. Phototherapy (Light therapy)

Used for moderate to severe psoriasis.

• Exposing the skin to controlled doses of natural or artificial ultraviolet B (UVB) light
  
• PUVA therapy (psoralen + UVA light)
  

3. Oral or injectable medications (Systemic treatment)

Used when psoriasis is severe or doesn't improve with creams.

• Methotrexate
  
• Cyclosporine
  
• Acitretin
  
• Biologics (e.g., etanercept, adalimumab, secukinumab)
  

4. Home care and lifestyle changes

• Use gentle, fragrance-free moisturisers daily
  
• Avoid triggers like stress, skin injuries, smoking, and alcohol
  
• Eat a balanced diet and maintain a healthy weight
  
• Manage stress through relaxation techniques, yoga, or counselling
  
• Bathe in lukewarm water with soothing products like oats or Epsom salts
  

5. Regular follow-up with a dermatologist

• Helps track the disease, adjust treatments, and prevent complications
  
• Early changes in treatment can stop flare-ups from worsening

Latest Treatment for Psoriasis

Recent advances in psoriasis treatment focus on more targeted approaches, aiming to improve effectiveness while reducing side effects. These new therapies are especially beneficial for people with moderate to severe psoriasis.

1. Biologic Treatments (Targeted Immune Therapy)

Biologics are advanced treatments that target specific immune system proteins responsible for the inflammation and rapid skin cell turnover seen in psoriasis. These treatments are typically given as injections and help control symptoms for extended periods.

• Targeting immune proteins - These treatments focus on blocking specific molecules that trigger psoriasis flare-ups.
  
• Long-lasting effects - Patients can experience improved skin conditions with fewer doses.
  
• Minimal side effects - These treatments are generally well-tolerated with fewer side effects compared to older systemic medications.

2. Oral Targeted Therapies

Oral medications are an alternative to injections, offering convenience while still targeting the immune system to reduce psoriasis symptoms.

• Targeting specific pathways - These medications work by blocking the immune system signals that cause skin inflammation.
  
• Effective for moderate cases - Oral treatments are ideal for patients who prefer pills over injections and can be used alone or in combination with other therapies.
  
• Lower risk of side effects - New oral treatments come with fewer side effects compared to older systemic therapies.
  

3. Personalised Treatment Plans

Doctors now customise psoriasis treatment based on a variety of factors, including:

• Genetics and the immune system’s response
  
• The severity of the disease
  
• Patient preferences, such as choosing between oral and injectable treatments
  
• Lifestyle and health conditions

This approach allows for a more effective treatment plan, ensuring that patients receive the best care suited to their needs.

4. Combination Therapies

In some cases, combining different treatments can be more effective than using a single therapy. For example:

• Biologic treatments with topical therapies - Combining injections with creams can help control symptoms more efficiently.
  
• Adding light therapy - Light therapy can be used in conjunction with other treatments to improve results and reduce flare-ups.

Early treatment gives the best result. Do not ignore these symptoms. If you notice them for a long time. If you or your loved ones are dealing with psoriasis, Bangla Health Connect connects you with psoriasis experts at Apollo Hospitals.

Why Choose India for Psoriasis Treatment?

India is a top destination for Bangladeshi patients seeking psoriasis treatment. Every year, many families travel here for safe, expert, and affordable care.

Key reasons Bangladeshis choose India:

• Experienced psoriasis specialists
  Top hospitals have doctors trained in managing all types of psoriasis, including severe and resistant cases.
• Advanced medical facilities
  Indian hospitals are equipped with the latest technologies for diagnosing and treating psoriasis, including biologic therapies, light therapy, and advanced skincare treatments.
• Affordable treatment costs
  Costs in India are significantly lower than in many other countries, while still offering high-quality care and access to world-class doctors.
• Easy travel and language
  Bangladeshis can travel to India conveniently. Many hospitals offer Bengali-speaking staff and translators, making communication easier.
• Quick appointments
  Patients can schedule quick consultations and begin treatment promptly, avoiding long waiting times.
• Trusted by many Bangladeshi families
  Thousands of Bangladeshi patients visit India every year for psoriasis treatment and return with improved results and better skin health.

India offers the right mix of skilled doctors, advanced treatment options, lower cost, and patient-friendly services. Compared to other countries, patients get the same quality care at a much more affordable price in India.

Contact Bangla Health Connect today to connect with top Indian hospitals, book a doctor’s appointment, or get a second opinion.