Psoriasis treatment can be very expensive. According to the National Psoriasis Foundation (NPF), one in three people with psoriasis have trouble paying for the cost of care. The issues range from having no health insurance to having health insurance with co-pays that are out of reach or no coverage for psoriasis treatments.
We bring you a few ways to keep costs down while still treating your psoriasis carefully and adequately.
Manage your diet:
Psoriasis is an inflammatory disease, so by incorporating anti-inflammatory foods into your diet, you may be able to manage a flare without expensive pharmaceutical interventions.
Exercise regularly:
Body exercise is very important when managing psoriasis. It helps becuase it lowers levels of stress which can be a major trigger for psoriasis and helps with weight regulation.
Consider Patient Assistance programs:
Patient Assistance Programs (PAPs) provide financial assistance to patients who do not have health insurance and to patients whose health insurance still leaves treatment unaffordable. PAPs are sponsored by drug manufacturers and nonprofit organizations. Eligibility for PAPs may depend on your household income and what kind of insurance you have.
You can ask your health care provider or pharmacist about any PAPs for the medications you take. You can also look for PAPs on the drug manufacturer’s website.
Use topical creams in a smart way:
It is important to use topic creams after a warm shower or bath. Pat your skin dry with a clean towel, then apply cream or ointment while the skin still retains moisture and your pores are open from your shower or bath.
Do not overuse topical creams:
When it comes to topical creams, such as Naftalan Cream, the more you put on is better but there is no need to overdo it. Instead of applying a lot, simply put a smaller measure and rub it into the skin gently with circular motion. That way you will cover a larger area of skin as well as avoid the situation of using too much and you will extend the lifetime of a package.
Use kitchen plastic wrap:
Have you ever tried wrapping your skin with kitchen wrap film? Here is a great trick: first apply Naftalan Oil to your skin, then wrap it gently with thin kitcehn wrap film and leave overnight. This will create humidity on your psoriasis and it will help your skin soak in the mineral oil. Remove the kitchen film in the morning and see what happens.
Manage your stress:
Stress is a major trigger for psoriasis. Finding ways to manage your own stress, from mindfulness in the morning to yoga on YouTube to deep breaths when you’re overwhelmed, could be good for your mind, your body and your wallet.
Do your own light therapy:
If you found that phototherapy works for you but is expensive ton your budget every month consider purchasing your own phototherapy unit. There is a wide selection to buy from so make sure to research the options and carefully read the reviews from other patients.
Consider hospital psoriasis treatment programs:
Systematic psoriasis treatment programs help with skin rehabilitation and can reduce your psoriasis symptoms for 6 months. These programs are custom prepared in accordance of the needs of each patient and are performed under strict supervision by specialist doctors.
