What is Psoriasis and How is it Caused?

Introduction

Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune condition that causes rapid skin cell production, leading to scaling on the skin’s surface. It often results in red patches covered with thick, silvery scales, accompanied by itching, discomfort, and sometimes pain. Psoriasis is a persistent, long-term condition that can fluctuate in severity. The Vishwasiddhi Ayurveda & Panchkarma Centre, with locations in Ahmednagar and Pune, Maharashtra, offers specialized Ayurvedic treatments for psoriasis under the expert guidance of Dr. Pramod Palve, who has over 15 years of experience in Ayurveda and Panchkarma therapies.

A patient suffering from psoriasis

Understanding Psoriasis

Psoriasis is characterized by an overactive immune system that speeds up the life cycle of skin cells. Normally, skin cells grow deep in the skin and slowly rise to the surface, where they eventually fall off. The typical life cycle of a skin cell is one month. However, in people with psoriasis, this process may happen in just a few days. Because the skin cells don’t have time to fall off, they build up, causing the patches typical of psoriasis.

Causes of Psoriasis

The exact cause of psoriasis isn’t fully understood, but it’s believed to be related to an immune system problem with T cells and other white blood cells, called neutrophils, in your body. These cells normally protect the body against foreign substances, such as viruses or bacteria. But in psoriasis, the T cells attack healthy skin cells by mistake, as if to heal a wound or to fight an infection.

Factors that Trigger Psoriasis

  1. Genetics: Psoriasis often runs in families. If you have a close relative with the skin condition, your risk of developing it is higher.
  2. Immune System: As an autoimmune condition, psoriasis is the result of your immune system mistakenly attacking healthy cells.
  3. Environmental Triggers: Various external factors can trigger psoriasis, including infections, injuries to the skin, stress, smoking, and heavy alcohol consumption.
  4. Weather: Cold, dry weather can exacerbate symptoms, whereas warm, sunny weather can improve them.
  5. Certain Medications: Some medications, such as lithium, antimalarial drugs, and beta-blockers, can trigger psoriasis.

Symptoms of Psoriasis

  • Red patches of skin covered with thick, silvery scales
  • Dry, cracked skin that may bleed
  • Itching, burning, or soreness
  • Thickened, pitted, or ridged nails
  • Swollen and stiff joints

Types of Psoriasis

  1. Plaque Psoriasis: The most common type, characterized by dry, raised, red skin lesions covered with silvery scales.
  2. Guttate Psoriasis: Appears as small, water-drop-shaped, scaling lesions on the trunk, arms, legs, and scalp.
  3. Inverse Psoriasis: Causes bright red, shiny lesions that appear in skin folds, such as the armpits, groin, and under the breasts.
  4. Pustular Psoriasis: Causes white pustules surrounded by red skin, primarily on the hands and feet.
  5. Erythrodermic Psoriasis: The least common type, erythrodermic psoriasis can cover your entire body with a red, peeling rash that can itch or burn intensely.

Ayurveda and Panchakarma Treatment for Psoriasis

At Vishwasiddhi Ayurveda & Panchkarma Centre, Dr. Pramod Palve and his experienced team offer a holistic approach to managing psoriasis. Ayurveda, the ancient Indian system of medicine, views psoriasis as a result of imbalances in the body’s doshas (Vata, Pitta, and Kapha). Ayurvedic treatment focuses on restoring these balances through detoxification and lifestyle changes.

1. Detoxification (Shodhana):

  • Panchakarma Treatment: Panchakarma is a detoxification process that eliminates toxins from the body. This includes therapies such as Vamana (induced vomiting), Virechana (purgation), Basti (medicated enema), Nasya (nasal administration of medicines), and Raktamokshana (bloodletting). These treatments are tailored to each patient’s condition and help in balancing the doshas.

2. Internal and External Medications:

  • Herbal Remedies: Ayurveda uses various herbs and formulations to purify the blood and tissues, reducing inflammation and promoting skin health.
  • Topical Applications: Herbal oils and pastes are applied to the skin to soothe and heal lesions.

3. Dietary and Lifestyle Modifications:

  • Dietary Changes: A specific diet that avoids inflammatory foods and includes anti-inflammatory foods is recommended. Foods that balance the doshas and promote digestive health are emphasized.
  • Stress Management: Techniques such as yoga, meditation, and breathing exercises are used to manage stress, which is a known trigger for psoriasis.

Why Choose Vishwasiddhi Ayurveda & Panchkarma Centre?

  • Experienced Practitioners: Dr. Pramod Palve, the best Ayurveda doctor in Ahmednagar, leads a team of skilled professionals with extensive experience in Ayurveda and Panchakarma.
  • Personalized Care: The center offers individualized treatment plans tailored to each patient’s unique needs.
  • Holistic Approach: The focus is on treating the root cause of psoriasis and promoting overall health and well-being.
  • State-of-the-Art Facilities: The center is equipped with modern amenities to ensure a comfortable treatment experience.

Focus Keywords Integration

If you’re looking for the best ayurveda practitioner in Ahmednagar or the best panchkarma specialist in Pune, Vishwasiddhi Ayurveda & Panchkarma Centre is your ideal choice. Whether it’s psoriasis treatment in Ahmednagar or panchkarma treatment in Pune, Dr. Pramod Palve and his team provide top-notch care. From joint pain treatment to neurological rehabilitation using panchkarma, the center offers a wide range of services. For senior citizens, specialized panchkarma treatment is available to address age-related health issues. AVN treatment using panchkarma is another specialty. Experience the benefits of ayurveda treatment in Ahmednagar and the best ayurveda centre in Pune at Vishwasiddhi Ayurveda & Panchkarma Centre.

FAQs

  1. What is psoriasis and how is it diagnosed?
  • Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune condition that accelerates skin cell production, leading to scaling on the skin’s surface. Diagnosis is typically made through a physical examination and, in some cases, a skin biopsy to rule out other conditions.
  1. Can Ayurveda cure psoriasis completely?
  • While there is no complete cure for psoriasis, Ayurvedic treatments, including Panchakarma, can manage symptoms effectively and reduce flare-ups by addressing the root causes and promoting overall health.
  1. How long does Panchakarma treatment for psoriasis take?
  • The duration of Panchakarma treatment varies based on the severity of the condition and individual response to therapy. A typical treatment plan may range from a few weeks to several months.
  1. Are there any dietary restrictions during Ayurvedic treatment for psoriasis?
  • Yes, specific dietary guidelines are recommended to balance the doshas and reduce inflammation. Avoiding spicy, oily, and processed foods while incorporating fresh fruits, vegetables, and whole grains is generally advised.

For those seeking effective and holistic psoriasis treatment, Vishwasiddhi Ayurveda & Panchkarma Centre in Ahmednagar and Pune offers comprehensive care under the expert guidance of Dr. Pramod Palve. Experience the benefits of Ayurveda and Panchakarma for a healthier, more balanced life.