Psoriasis can be a painful and irritating condition that always seems to flare up at the worst times. By learning more about what can trigger your psoriasis, you can understand how to avoid or manage those triggers to help reduce the symptoms of psoriasis and the frequency of your flare-ups.
Psoriasis is characterized by red, itchy patches of skin that may be dry, scaly, or irritated. It is caused by a change in the immune system that causes the skin to regenerate faster than necessary. There is no cure for psoriasis and most people with the condition go through phases where it flares up and then goes into remission.
Triggers
There are many factors that can affect your psoriasis, causing it to flare up more often or have more intense symptoms when it does.
Psoriasis Trigger: Diet
While there is no prescribed diet for psoriasis, certain foods may cause the onset of symptoms in certain individuals. These foods are often acidic and cause inflammation which triggers a flare-up. Track your diet and consider removing foods like gluten, nightshades, dairy, red meats, alcohol, or sugar, if you find they are causing more intense psoriasis symptoms.
Psoriasis Trigger: Stress
Multiple studies have found a direct link between stress and psoriasis flare-ups. Try to keep stress levels low with a healthy work-life balance, spending time with your family, meditation, yoga, or other calming activities. This will not only help manage your psoriasis symptoms but also keep you healthy in all other aspects of your life.
Psoriasis Trigger: Injuries & Infections
A skin injury, such as a scratch, sunburn, or bug bite, can easily become an active patch of psoriasis. Practice healthy skin habits such as applying sunscreen and properly caring for any open wounds. Infections, such as strep throat or other upper respiratory infections, have also been known to cause psoriasis flare-ups. Always contact your doctor if you feel like you may have an infection.
Psoriasis Trigger: Medications
All medications can cause different side effects for individuals, so pay close attention to your skin if you begin taking a new medication while having psoriasis. If you notice your symptoms become more intense or flare-ups happen more frequently, tell your doctor, and talk to them about switching to a different medication.
Psoriasis Trigger: Weather
Extreme weather can trigger flare-ups for some people and usually make existing flare-ups worse. Avoid extremely cold or dry weather, if possible, and always keep your skin moisturized and protected with layers when facing the outside elements. Additionally, be sure to apply sunscreen and wear sun-protective clothing if you will be in the sun for long periods of time. Warm, humid weather seems to be ideal for most people with psoriasis and is the least likely to cause a flare-up.
Contact Rejuvenation Laser & Skin Center
Everyone is different and has their own unique triggers that may cause their psoriasis to flare up. If you are struggling with your psoriasis symptoms and need help managing your triggers, contact us today at Rejuvenation Laser & Skin Center to set up a consultation with one of our skincare professionals.