Psoriasis is a relatively common skin disorder that is probably at least partially genetic in nature but has no known cause—although doctors think that it may be an autoimmune problem. People with psoriasis suffer from patches of red skin with white, flaky scales on top. These patches are most commonly found on the patient’s torso, elbows, and knees, but they can happen virtually anywhere. Psoriasis is a chronic condition, but patients do have periods during which they are symptom-free. There are ways to prolong those asymptomatic periods, such as:
Being Serious About Moisturizing
If you have psoriasis, then it’s best if you use a great deal of heavy-duty and extremely thick moisturizer. In addition, you can help your skin stay moist by using a humidifier in your home and office. Finally, be sure that your moisturizers are reaching all the areas of your body that are subject to psoriasis: Specially-blended shampoos for your scalp, for example, won’t do you much good if you don’t take care to work them into your skin when you wash your hair.
Control Your Climate
Sunburns are horrible for people with psoriasis, but short periods of sun exposure can actually help stave off a recurrence of the condition. In addition, if you can move to an area of the country that tends to have warm, humid weather then you should. Dry winters are too cold and too dry for people with psoriasis and often provoke flare-ups of the condition.
Treat Your Body as a Temple
There are some medications that are known to exacerbate psoriasis, including lithium, so always be sure keep your dermatologist informed about what you’re taking and ask if there are any alternative medications she recommends. In addition, while we don’t know for sure that a poor diet and a high alcohol intake provoke psoriasis flare-ups, there is anecdotal evidence that supports the theory. Finally, try to relax. Psoriasis may be more likely to occur if you’re under a lot of pressure.
If you think that you might have psoriasis, then you should visit Arlington Dermatology. At Arlington Dermatology, our gifted dermatologists run a great skin care center that provides everything from acne treatment to skin cancer treatment. For more information, call us at 847-392-5440 today.
