Do you or someone you know struggle with psoriasis? The scaly, itchy red patches on your skin not only can cause pain and irritation, but they can also tend to be embarrassing and affect people’s self-esteem. Although there is no cure for psoriasis, you can learn to avoid and lessen the effects of your psoriasis by understanding these common triggers. Keep reading to learn about psoriasis triggers.
WHAT IS PSORIASIS?
Psoriasis is an immune system change that causes the skin to regenerate faster than normal. This condition results in dry, irritated, itchy patches of skin. When you have psoriasis, you’ll notice that your skin is sometimes red and scaly on specific patches, and is commonly found on the knees, elbows and scalp. Psoriasis also goes through phases of flare-ups and remissions, so it is uncommon that it is always in a flare up state.
HOW DOES DIET AFFECT PSORIASIS?
Just like some conditions, our diet plays a significant role in the onset of psoriasis. There is no set diet recommended for those with psoriasis, but certain foods like gluten, nightshade plants, dairy, shellfish, red meats and high sugar foods might be a trigger for you. These foods are either acidic or cause inflammation that can result in triggering a flare-up or making it worse. Tracking your food consumption in a food journal can help find correlations between your psoriasis flare-ups and can help answer which foods you should avoid.
Heavy alcohol consumption, which is considered five or more drinks per week, can also affect your psoriasis. Alcohol consumption should always be regulated, but the sugars and starches in alcohol can directly cause inflammation leading to a more intense flare-up.
HOW DOES STRESS AFFECT PSORIASIS?
Stress is directly linked to psoriasis outbreaks. Unfortunately, outbreaks tend to add to stress, resulting in a vicious cycle. To avoid this, try to keep your stress levels low by practicing meditation and or calming activities. Keeping your stress levels low will result in better overall health as well!
HOW DO INJURIES AFFECT PSORIASIS?
Skin injuries are known to be active psoriasis areas. If you get sunburnt, a scratch, cuts or bug bites, you might notice patches of psoriasis appear in those spots. Try to protect your skin as much as possible. This can be done by applying sunscreen every two hours when out in the sun, wearing protective clothing and practicing gentle approaches, like tending to cuts and scrapes with proper ointment and medication and keeping sores shut with adhesive protection.
HOW DOES WEATHER AFFECT PSORIASIS?
Weather can be a positive or negative factor for your psoriasis. When the weather is cold, dry or extreme, you might notice your skin responding poorly. However, warmer, more humid weather is gentler on the skin and is less likely to cause a flare-up. The best way to avoid extreme weather is to stay indoors. We know this isn’t always ideal, so if you do have to go outside, make sure to use sun protection in warmer weather and in cooler weather, keep your skin from chapping by applying lotion to dry skin and bundling in layers.
HOW CAN INFECTIONS AFFECT PSORIASIS?
Certain infections may trigger psoriasis such as strep throat and upper respiratory infections. Contact a doctor immediately if you notice signs of an oncoming infection.
DO MEDICATIONS AFFECT PSORIASIS?
Each medication has its own set of side effects. If you begin taking medications that affect your immune system or have known skin health effects, you might find that your psoriasis flare ups become more frequent or intense. If you’re trying a new medication, let your doctor know that you have psoriasis to talk about the options you have for treatment and prevention.
VISIT YOUR DERMATOLOGIST | DERMATOLOGY CENTER FOR SKIN HEALTH, PLLC
While it might take time to understand your body’s needs, it is important to understand your psoriasis triggers. Understanding your body is the first step to gaining control over flare ups and lessening the effects of psoriasis. If you’re ready to make an appointment to discuss options for treating psoriasis, or if you have any questions or concerns about your skin health, give us a call at (304) 598-3888 or click here. We’re currently accepting new patients and encourage you to make your appointment soon. We look forward to hearing from you!
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