Ozone Therapy For Psoriasis

By

Alyaa Ghanema

International MD, ND, PHD in nutrition

Psoriasis is an inflammatory disease of the skin. It is usually characterized by the appearance of thick patches of skin that flake off (which peel off as white "scales"). The plaques appear in different places on the body, most often on the elbows, knees, and scalp. They leave areas of red skin.

This chronic disease progresses in cycles, with periods of remission. It is not contagious and can be well controlled with treatment.

Psoriasis can be very uncomfortable or even painful when it appears on the palms of the hands, the soles of the feet, or in the folds of the skin. The extent of the disease varies greatly from person to person. Depending on where the plaques are located and how extensive, psoriasis can be bothersome and interfere with social life. Indeed, the view of others on skin diseases is often hurtful.

1. Who is affected?

About 2 to 4% of the western population would be affected. Psoriasis mostly affects Caucasians.

The disease usually appears in adulthood, in your late twenties or early thirties. However, it can affect children, sometimes even before 2 years. Psoriasis affects both men and women.

2. Causes

The precise cause of psoriasis is not known. Several factors are believed to be involved in

the onset of the disease, in particular genetic and environmental factors. Thus, there is a family history of psoriasis in about 40% of cases. Physical (infections, injuries, surgery, medication, etc.) or psychological (nervous fatigue, anxiety, etc.) stresses can contribute to the onset of the disease23.

Psoriasis could also be caused by autoimmune reactions occurring in the skin. These reactions would stimulate the multiplication of cells in the epidermis. In people with psoriasis, these cells renew themselves at a much too rapid rate: every 3 to 6 days rather than every 28 or 30 days. Since the lifespan of skin cells remains the same, they accumulate and form thick scabs.

3. Types of PsoriasisThere are several types of psoriasis. The most common form is plaque psoriasis, also called psoriasis vulgaris (because it accounts for over 80% of cases). The other forms are

- guttate psoriasis,

Observed especially in children and young adults, it corresponds to an efflorescence of small psoriasis lesions of less than 1cm in diameter predominantly on the trunk and the roots of the arms and thighs, most often sparing the face and occurring most often within 15 days of an ENT infectious episode (but also anogenital) with β- hemolytic streptococcus of group A (2/3 of cases), C, Gou viral. Most of the time, the guttate psoriasis rash develops for about 1 month, then persists for 1 month and then in half of cases resolves spontaneously on the 3rd or 4th month. However, sometimes gout psoriasis becomes chronic, in the form of a few residual plaques, or even disease outbreaks for several years. In addition, gouty psoriasis

may be a mode of entry into psoriasis since one third of patients eventually develop chronic plaque psoriasis.

The treatment of gouty psoriasis is most often based on Ultra Violets delivered in the cabin under medical supervision

• erythrodermic psoriasis (generalized form)
• and pustular psoriasis. See the Symptoms section for a detailed description. The

locations of the plaques vary from one person to another, and we distinguish,

among others:

• Psoriasis of the scalp, very common;

• Palmoplantar psoriasis, which affects the palms of the hands and the soles of the feet;

• Reverse psoriasis, which is characterized by plaques in the skin folds (groin, armpits, etc.);

• Psoriasis of the nails (or ungual).

In nearly 7% of those affected, psoriasis is accompanied by joint pain with swelling and stiffness, which is called psoriatic arthritis or psoriatic arthritis. This form of arthritis requires specific treatment by a rheumatologist and may require heavy treatments.

4. Course and possible complications

The disease progresses in quite unpredictable outbreaks and very variable depending on the individual. Symptoms usually last 3 to 4 months, then they can go away for several months or even years (this is the period of remission) and then reappear in most cases. People with a moderate or severe form of psoriasis can be

very affected by their appearance and thus suffer from stress, anxiety, loneliness, loss of self-esteem and even depression.

It appears that people with psoriasis suffer more from cardiovascular disorders, metabolic syndrome and obesity, for reasons that are still unknown.

1. Symptoms of psoriasis

Plaque (or vulgar). Well defined red patches, round or oval, covered with thick crusts of white skin which flaky. Usually located on the elbows, knees, scalp and buttocks. These plaques can cause discomfort, pain and sometimes intense itching.

• Psoriasis of the nails. Various abnormalities of the fingernails and toenails: small “depressions” that look like thimble holes, peeling, crumbling, discoloration, thickening, streaks.
• Scalp psoriasis. Red patches with silvery scales on the scalp and the edge of the forehead.
• Palmoplantar psoriasis. Dry patches on the palms of the hands and the sole of the foot, often painful and cracked.
• Reverse (or invert) psoriasis. Red plaques that appear in the folds (in the armpits, groins, near the genitals, in the folds of the buttocks), without scales, and sometimes painful since exposed to friction.
• Pustular psoriasis. Plates covered with small white pustules, especially on the hands and the sole of the foot (palmoplantar pustulosis). This shape can also touch the fingertips.
• Erythrodermic psoriasis. Almost all of the skin is red and inflamed, with no specific patches. There is often a fever and chills. It is a serious form, which requires urgent treatment.
• Guttate psoriasis. Rare form that mainly affects children and adolescents and occurs after a streptococcal infection (tonsillitis or pharyngitis, most often). The plaques are small (less than 1 cm), teardrop shaped, and are often present on the trunk, arms, and legs.

Note. You cannot spread the plaques to other people or spread them elsewhere on your own body. They are not contagious.

2. People at risk and risk factors for psoriasis

3. People at risk

People who have a family history of psoriasis. Almost 40% of patients have one or more members of their family also affected. If one of the two parents is affected, the risk of the child suffering from this condition varies from 5 to 10%.

• Obese people. Obesity is associated with an increased risk of psoriasis, as is type 2 diabetes and metabolic syndrome27.

• People infected with HIV.

Risk factors

There are several factors that can trigger the development of plaques in people who already have psoriasis.

A reaction to a drug, including lithium prescribed to treat bipolar disorder, beta blockers for hypertension, and drugs for malaria; A high level of stress;A scratch, cut or insect bite; A sunburn ;Cold and dry climates; Exposure to chemicals; Alcohol consumption ; Smoking. It worsens the symptoms and is a risk factor for this disease; An infection of the throat or respiratory tract (in the case of guttate psoriasis).

Preventing Psoriasis

There is no known way to prevent psoriasis. However, it is possible to reduce the frequency and intensity of relapses. In addition to careful monitoring of the prescribed treatment, it is possible to observe what triggers the onset of symptoms. This process requires time and patience.

Here are some general tips:

During long exposure to the sun, it is advisable to apply an effective sunscreen (minimum SPF 50).

• Alcohol consumption should be greatly reduced, if not totally eliminated.

• No smoking. Several studies37,38 have clearly shown that the severity of psoriasis is related to the number of cigarettes smoked.

Some people with the disease see their disease improve considerably after losing a little weight. Consider modifying certain lifestyle habits accordingly if necessary.

Find solutions to better manage stress. It is recognized that stress plays a role in the onset or exacerbation of psoriasis flares1, 23. Anecdotally, it was observed that the severity of the symptoms of a patient followed for 20 weeks was clearly related to disturbing events in his life and to his psychological distress2. On this subject, consult our file Stress and anxiety.

People with the disease may possibly undergo psychotherapy in order to become aware of the events or mental states that are at the origin of certain psoriasis outbreaks.

4. Medical treatments for psoriasis

Psoriasis is a chronic disease that cannot be cured, so you can never be sure that flare-ups will never come back. Nevertheless, it is possible to relieve the symptoms effectively with the help of medicinal products applied to the lesions.

The goal is to reduce the extent of plaques and the frequency of relapses, but it is difficult to achieve their total disappearance. It may be necessary to try several treatments before finding one that works. It is also important to be regular in the application of treatments and to follow the doctor's instructions, even if this is restrictive, if one wants to obtain good results.

Treatment is mainly based on the application of creams and ointments to the plaques. In some cases, more powerful treatments can be used to slow the proliferation of skin cells, including light therapy or oral medications. However, the skin can become resistant to treatment over time.

For more extensive and more severe forms of psoriasis, medications administered orally or by injection are prescribed:

Retinoids (acitretin or Soriatane®), often in combination with calipotriol or topical corticosteroids. The main side effects are dryness of the skin and mucous membranes. These drugs are also dangerous for the fetus during pregnancy and should be taken only with effective contraception.

Methotrexate or cyclosporine which decrease the activity of the immune system (immunosuppressant) and are very effective, but which are reserved for short treatment phases due to the significant side effects (liver and kidney damage, increased risk of infection).

Tips for caring for psoriasis plaques

Short, regular exposure to the sun can ease a psoriasis attack. Apply a suitable sunscreen (minimum SPF 50) beforehand;

Take a bath every day for the plaques to peel off naturally. Add bath oil, colloidal oatmeal or Epsom salts to the water. Soak for at least 15 minutes. Avoid too hot water. Use a mild soap;

Avoid using irritating toiletries, for example those containing alcohol;

After bathing or showering, apply a moisturizer to the still wet skin (this is especially important in winter);

Avoid scratching and rubbing the affected areas. If necessary, overnight, wrap the skin in plastic wrap after applying an emollient cream or ointment.

Aloe (Aloe vera). Aloe gel is a viscous liquid extracted from the heart of the large leaves of the plant (not to be confused with the latex which is taken from the outer part of the leaves). It has emollient properties and is often used in dermatology. The few published studies have given contradictory results, but overall more positive than negative5,39,40.

Omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3 fatty acids are recognized for their anti- inflammatory action. A few clinical studies have been performed with fish oil supplements, however, with conflicting results. Many professionals,

health including those from the Mayo Clinic in the United States, feel that it is still worth trying this treatment as adjuvant.

In addition, the intake of marine lecithin supplements (marine phospholipids extracted from wild fish, rich in omega-3) has been tested in people with psoriasis in 2 preliminary studies conducted by a French dermatologist. The subjects had stopped all medical treatment (except emollients). After 3 months of treatment, a decrease in symptoms was observed. After 6 months, plaque healing has occurred in the vast majority of subjects. Marine lecithin is better digested than omega-3 in the form of fish oils, says the author of this research.

Hydrotherapy (balneotherapy). Some studies tend to demonstrate the beneficial effect of spa treatments in the treatment of psoriasis, but more research is needed to be able to rule on its effectiveness. The presence in the water of different minerals and trace elements seems to be a factor that significantly determines the results. The heavily mineralized waters of the Dead Sea in Israel have such a reputation that people come from all over the world to treat skin conditions, including psoriasis. The mechanical and thermal effects of hydrotherapy could also explain this beneficial effect . They would very often make it possible to limit the use of drugs.

German Chamomile (Matrica recutita). Commission E recognizes the effectiveness of German chamomile flowers in relieving skin inflammation. Chamomile preparations are widely used in Europe to treat psoriasis, eczema, dry skin, and irritation. This plant exerts an anti-inflammatory and anti-allergic action.

Dosage

Consult our German Chamomile sheet.

Vinegar. Vinegar is traditionally used to calm the itchiness sometimes caused by psoriasis.

Dosage

Apply to affected areas, using a pad.

Anti-inflammatory diet. The American doctor Andrew Weil recommends favoring a diet whose effects are anti-inflammatory19. This diet is rich in fruits and vegetables and favors whole grains.

Hypnotherapy. Researchers have already underlined the curative effect of hypnotherapy on skin diseases, and in particular on psoriasis. skin problems seem receptive to suggestions made by hypnosis. At this time, only preliminary studies are available to support its effectiveness.

Naturopathy. The suggested approach is based on the assumption that the lining of the intestine of people with psoriasis has a higher than normal permeability. Antigens would pass through the intestinal wall when they should not. They would then trigger immune reactions in the skin. In naturopathy, we therefore give an important role to food and digestion in the therapeutic approach of psoriasis. According to the American naturopath JE Pizzorno, it is important to know if the sufferer has a digestive problem, if they have food sensitivities, if they are secreting enough digestive enzymes and if their liver is functioning well. Gluten intolerance could sometimes be associated with psoriasis, as several studies suggest In those affected, not eating gluten could therefore alleviate symptoms. Consult a trained naturopath or nutritionist.

Relaxation and stress management. It is recognized that high stress plays a role in the onset or exacerbation of psoriasis flare-ups. Various approaches help to relax, such as breathing exercises, meditation, visualization or biofeedback. In 1998, a study was carried out on 37 people who were undergoing phototherapy or photo chemotherapy treatment for psoriasis. A quicktechnique meditation(based on listening to instructions recorded on audio cassettes) with the examination yielded a significantly faster healing.

Supplements: Vit.D- Milk thistle - Omega 3.6 - probiotics-echinacea

Use topically:

• Aloe Vera: Aloe gel can be applied to the skin up to three times a day.

Some research shows that it can help reduce the redness and flaking associated with psoriasis. Look for creams containing 0.5% aloe.
• Apple Cider Vinegar: Used by ancient cultures as a disinfectant, apple cider vinegar can help relieve itchy scalp caused by psoriasis.

Cayenne (Capsicum frutescens). Capsaicin is the active substance in cayenne. It would have the ability to reduce inflammation and prevent the dilation of blood vessels in the epidermis. Applications of a capsaicin cream appear to relieve itching caused by psoriasis.

Dosage

• Apply to affected areas, up to 4 times a day, a cream, lotion or ointment containing 0.025% to 0.075% capsaicin. It often takes 14 days of treatment before the full therapeutic effect is felt.

Oats: Oats are considered to be one of nature's best skin lollipops. There is no scientific evidence to support the use of oats to relieve the symptoms of psoriasis. But many people with psoriasis report that applying an oat paste or bathing in the oats relieves their itchy skin and reduces redness.

Mahonia Aquifolium (Oregon grape): Mahonia is a potent antimicrobial herb that plays a role in the immune response. Studies have shown that the application of a cream containing 10% mahonia is effective in the treatment of mild to moderate psoriasis. Since it is a member of the alkaloid family, mahonia should only be used topically under the supervision of a physician.

Essential oils: as most of them have antibacterial antifungal effect and can reduce inflammation, itching.

Coconut oil - tea tree oil - castor oil - lavender oil - geranium oil - peppermint oil - argan oil - black seed oil

Detox day once a week

Cupping therapy: strong anti-inflammatory and powerful detox therapy

Ozone therapy : -

Ozone Therapy: An Effective Solution for Psoriasis at NutriMedicine Center

Ozone therapy, both systemic and topical, has shown remarkable effectiveness in treating psoriasis. Many patients notice significant improvements after just 2-3 sessions. Ozone's anti-inflammatory and immune-modulating properties help address psoriasis at its root, providing lasting relief.

At NutriMedicine Center, we have numerous success stories using ozone therapy for psoriasis. Our approach includes both systemic and topical techniques to maximize results:

• Systemic Administration: We use Rectal Insufflation and Minor Autohaemotherapy to introduce ozone into the body, helping modulate the immune system and reduce inflammation.

• Topical Administration: We use Limb Insufflation to directly treat affected skin areas.

In each session, our clients receive both systemic and topical treatments, allowing them to experience noticeable improvements from the very first session. Each session lasts about 45 minutes and is repeated once a week for 8 weeks.

Results: Our clients report up to 80% improvement, with no recurrence for over a year!

Ready to start your journey toward clear, healthy skin? Book your appointment now and experience the benefits of ozone therapy.

Reference

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Alyaa Academy -Naturopath

9. Grimminger F, et al. A double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial of n-3 fatty acid based lipid infusion in acute, extended guttate psoriasis. Rapid improvement of clinical manifestations an changes in neutrophil leukotriene profile. Clin Investig 1993; 71 (8): 634-43.

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Legault JB. Chinese medicine would relieve psoriasis, PasseportSanté.net, May 13, 2003.

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Alyaa Academy -Naturopath

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