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Recognizing the Risk Factors for Psoriasis

May 24, 2018

Psoriasis can be an uncomfortable and frustrating skin condition. If you have been diagnosed, it’s important to see your dermatologist regularly as part of your psoriasis treatment plan, to ensure that your care is managing your symptoms as effectively as possible. If you don’t have psoriasis, understanding the risk factors and doing what you can to mitigate your chances of getting it developing. Here are some of the most common risk factors for the disease.

Family History

There is a strong genetic component to psoriasis. About one-third of patients with the disease have other family members who also have it. Being genetically predisposed to psoriasis does not mean you will get it, but it does mean that you are more likely to develop it, especially in the presence of other risk factors. If you know that psoriasis runs in your family, you may benefit from trying to actively avoid the risk factors you can control.

Obesity

Obesity is a risk factor for a specific kind of psoriasis called inverse psoriasis. This kind of psoriasis typically affects the skin folds, such as the armpits or the skin under the breasts. Inverse psoriasis can be painful and challenging to treat, but maintaining a healthy weight can help you avoid developing it. If you are obese and get this kind of psoriasis, losing weight may also be part of your treatment plan.

Stress

Stress is a major contributor to the development of psoriasis and in flare-ups of the disease. If you deal with chronic stress, anxiety, or an emotional health problem, your dermatologist may recommend that you seek help for dealing with those challenges as part of your psoriasis treatment plan.

Your dermatologist at Arlington Dermatology can help you find a psoriasis treatment plan in Arlington Heights that works for you and helps you manage your symptoms while reducing the risk of flare-ups. To learn more about psoriasis treatment options, call us at [company-phone id=1].

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