CONTACT US TODAY:  (216) 831-0600 |

Embracing Psoriasis Awareness Month: The Benefits of Home Phototherapy 

August is Psoriasis Awareness Month, bringing attention to a condition that impacts millions globally.

Introduction

August marks Psoriasis Awareness Month, a dedicated time to shine a light on a condition that affects millions worldwide. Psoriasis is far more than just a skin issue; it’s a chronic autoimmune disease that can significantly impact one’s quality of life. At NatBio, we’re committed to advancing understanding and treatment options for this challenging condition. This month, we want to provide valuable insights into psoriasis and highlight the power of home phototherapy, backed by the remarkable findings of the LITE study.

Understanding Psoriasis

Psoriasis is a complex systemic, immunological, and genetic disease that primarily affects the skin and joints. It leads to the rapid buildup of skin cells, resulting in scales and red patches that can be itchy and sometimes painful. Psoriasis manifests differently in each person, with symptoms ranging from mild to severe. Importantly, psoriasis is not contagious and cannot be spread from person to person.

Types of Psoriasis

  1. Plaque Psoriasis: The most common form, characterized by red, raised, and inflamed patches covered with silvery-white scales.
  2. Guttate Psoriasis: Appears as small, dot-like lesions and often starts in childhood or young adulthood.
  3. Inverse Psoriasis: Occurs in body folds such as under the breasts, in the groin, or around the buttocks and is characterized by smooth, red lesions.
  4. Pustular Psoriasis: Causes white pustules (blisters of non-infectious pus) surrounded by red skin.
  5. Erythrodermic Psoriasis: A severe form that leads to widespread redness, covering a large area of the body. It can cause severe itching and pain.

Traditional Treatment Options

Psoriasis treatments vary based on the severity and type of psoriasis, as well as the patient’s overall health and preferences. Traditional treatment options include:

Topical Treatments

For mild to moderate psoriasis, topical treatments are often the first line of defense. These include:

  • Corticosteroids: Reduce inflammation and relieve itching.
  • Vitamin D Analogues: Slow down the growth of skin cells.
  • Topical Retinoids: Normalize DNA activity in skin cells and decrease inflammation.
  • Calcineurin Inhibitors: Reduce inflammation and plaque buildup.
  • Salicylic Acid: Promotes the shedding of dead skin cells and reduces scaling.
  • Coal Tar: Reduces scaling, itching, and inflammation.

Systemic Medications

For moderate to severe psoriasis, systemic medications that affect the entire body may be necessary. These include:

  • Biologics: Target specific parts of the immune system and are usually administered via injection or intravenous infusion.
  • Methotrexate: Reduces the production of skin cells and suppresses inflammation.
  • Cyclosporine: Suppresses the immune system.
  • Acitretin: A type of retinoid that slows the growth of skin cells.
  • Apremilast: An oral medication that targets certain enzymes involved in the inflammatory process.

The Power of Phototherapy

Phototherapy, or light therapy, is an effective treatment for psoriasis that involves exposing the skin to ultraviolet (UV) light under medical supervision. Phototherapy slows down the rapid growth of skin cells, providing relief from symptoms.

Types of Phototherapy

  1. UVB Phototherapy: Uses ultraviolet light to penetrate the skin and slow the growth of affected skin cells. It can be administered as broadband UVB or narrowband UVB, with the latter being more commonly used due to its effectiveness and safety profile.
  2. PUVA Phototherapy: Combines a photosensitizing drug called psoralen with UVA light. PUVA is typically used for more severe cases of psoriasis.

Home Phototherapy: A Convenient Solution

Home phototherapy has emerged as a convenient and effective alternative to in-office treatments. It allows patients to receive UV light therapy at home, making it easier to adhere to treatment schedules and maintain consistent care. The LITE (Light Treatment Effectiveness) study is a significant research effort that supports the efficacy of home phototherapy.

Learn more about NatBio’s home phototherapy devices by clicking here.

Key Findings from the LITE Study

The LITE study, a pivotal U.S. clinical trial, compared the effectiveness of home phototherapy with traditional in-office treatments. The study demonstrated that home phototherapy is equally effective in managing psoriasis symptoms. Patients using home phototherapy devices, such as those from NatBio, experienced significant improvements in their condition.

The study particularly highlighted the use of devices equipped with advanced controllers that ensure accurate, safe, and easy-to-administer treatments. This convenience leads to high patient satisfaction and adherence to the treatment regimen.

Advantages of Home Phototherapy

  1. Convenience: Home phototherapy allows patients to undergo treatment at their own convenience, without the need for frequent trips to a medical facility. This is particularly beneficial for those with busy schedules or limited access to healthcare centers.
  2. Consistency: Consistent treatment is crucial for managing psoriasis effectively. Home phototherapy enables patients to stick to their treatment regimen more easily, leading to better outcomes.
  3. Cost-Effective: Over time, home phototherapy can be more cost-effective than regular visits to a healthcare provider for in-office treatments. It eliminates travel costs and reduces time off work.
  4. Privacy: Some patients may feel self-conscious about their condition. Home phototherapy provides a private and comfortable environment for treatment.
  5. Safety: Modern home phototherapy devices, like those from NatBio, are designed with safety features that ensure proper dosage and reduce the risk of overexposure to UV light.
  6. Cost Savings: Home phototherapy is a one-time purchase and is often covered by insurance. The upfront cost of a home phototherapy device is significantly less when compared to the recurring annual expenses that one might incur if utilizing other treatment options.

Learn more about NatBio’s home phototherapy devices by clicking here.

Initial Consultation and Diagnosis

Before starting any treatment, an accurate diagnosis is crucial. The initial consultation typically involves a thorough medical history review, a physical examination, and sometimes skin biopsies to confirm the diagnosis and rule out other conditions. An accurate diagnosis ensures that the treatment plan is tailored to the specific type and severity of psoriasis.

Choosing the Right Treatment Path

Selecting the appropriate treatment path for psoriasis can be challenging, but considering the following factors can help guide the decision:

  1. Severity of Psoriasis: The extent and severity of the disease often determine the treatment approach. Mild cases might be managed with topical treatments, while moderate to severe cases may require systemic medications or phototherapy.
  2. Lifestyle and Preferences: Treatment options should align with the patient’s lifestyle, preferences, and ability to adhere to the regimen. Home phototherapy offers convenience and flexibility for those with busy schedules.
  3. Effectiveness and Side Effects: The effectiveness of the treatment and its potential side effects should be considered. Discussing these factors with a healthcare provider can help identify the most suitable option.
  4. Comorbidities: Patients with other health conditions may need specific treatments that do not interfere with their overall health.
  5. Cost and Accessibility: The cost of treatment and its accessibility are important considerations. Home phototherapy can be a cost-effective and accessible option for many patients.

Managing Psoriasis Effectively

Managing psoriasis involves more than just medical treatments. Here are some tips to help patients manage their condition effectively:

  1. Adhere to Treatment Plans: Consistency is key in managing psoriasis. Stick to the prescribed treatment plan and consult your healthcare provider if you experience any issues.
  2. Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle: A healthy diet, regular exercise, and stress management can positively impact psoriasis. Avoiding triggers such as smoking and excessive alcohol consumption is also beneficial.
  3. Moisturize Regularly: Keeping the skin moisturized can reduce dryness, scaling, and itching.
  4. Stay Informed: Educate yourself about psoriasis and its treatments. Understanding your condition can empower you to make informed decisions about your care.
  5. Seek Support: Joining support groups, such as the National Psoriasis Foundation, or connecting with others who have psoriasis can provide emotional support and practical advice.

Conclusion

As we celebrate Psoriasis Awareness Month, it is important to remember that effective management of psoriasis is achievable with the right treatment plan. Home phototherapy, supported by the findings of the LITE study, offers a promising solution for many patients. By providing convenience, consistency, and safety, home phototherapy can help you achieve clearer skin and a better quality of life.

At NatBio, we are dedicated to advancing phototherapy technology and improving the lives of those affected by psoriasis. We encourage you to explore home phototherapy and discuss this option with your healthcare provider. Together, we can work towards a future with clearer skin and greater well-being.

For more information about home phototherapy and NatBio’s innovative solutions, download our helpful Quick Reference Guide or contact us today.