Naturopathic Living - Where Health Comes First
Naturopathic Family Medicine and Dermatology
Dermatology

Our clinical approach to treatment of skin conditions is systematic and involves following a complex, highly individualized program.

The two conditions most often evaluated and treated in our clinic are: atopic dermatitis and psoriasis.

During her extensive clinical internship at Polyclinic Pediatrics in Seattle, WA, Dr. Ciuha observed numerous cases of atopic dermatitis (eczema) in children of all ages. When only traditional treatments, such as topical corticosteroids, were used - the results of treatment were limited to the relief of symptoms. Dr. Ciuha believes that such treatments, while necessary to reduce the discomfort during the acute stages of inflammation, do not address the causes of dermatitis and do not prevent the progression of the disease. She has done extensive search of the studies of childhood and adult dermatitis and based her individualized treatment approach on the evaluation and removal of the dermatitis-provoking agents. Often, such agents include environmental allergens, food sensitivities, and sensitivity to the topical chemicals - soaps, detergents, lotions, mineral oils and flame-retarding agents in children's clothing/bedding.

Psoriasis is an inflammatory skin condition, which is often triggered in genetically susceptible individuals by stressors - bacterial and viral infections, malnutrition and severe emotional stress. Therefore, careful evaluation of the timing and circumstances of the onset of the disease must be made before proceeding with the treatment. Once the trigger of the disease has been identified, the recommendations are made on how to reduce or eliminate the offending agent. Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory condition, which is often refractory to the conventional treatments. Complex naturopathic treatment has a potential to reduce the severity of the disease and, in most cases, to stop the progression.

Other skin conditions, commonly treated include but are not limited to: