Minimizing Psoriasis Flare Ups
Doctors and dermatologists agree that there are things that individuals can do that will help them to prevent or minimize the flare-ups of psoriasis. There are ways to help them live more comfortably with the skin condition and also help initiate better results from their treatments.
The first step for anyone with a disease is to insure that they are doing everything they can do to stay in good health by eating a balanced diet, take in adequate amounts of water, and by getting proper amounts of sleep each night. Getting their bodies into the best health possible can also help them to fight off infection. Infection is one of the triggers for psoriasis.
Keeping a journal about psoriasis flare-ups and what events, environmental factors or emotions preceded the flare-up (going back 2 or 3 weeks) can aid the patient and the doctor to understand what triggers the psoriasis.
Limit your alcohol consumption because studies show that drinking too much can actually prevent treatment from doing what it is suppose to do. It can also trigger a flare-up. Patients, who are being treated for their psoriasis with the medication methotrexate, should not drink alcohol at all.
Stress is a trigger for most individuals who have psoriasis and is almost impossible to avoid. Just the fact that you have psoriasis is stressful. It is important to find ways to reduce the level of stress in your life or to minimize the effects of the stress. Relaxation techniques can help to reduce stress.
Skincare regimens can help to relieve the symptoms of psoriasis like moisturizers. They prevent your skin from drying out. Dry skin creates a higher risk for breaks in the skin which can lead to flare-ups.
Other ways to minimize flare-ups and give comfort are: applying a compress, applying a menthol-based ointment or an approved topical steroid, using a moisturizer, and also having a soak in a warm oatmeal bath.
Never bath in hot water, use warm.
Do not pick at lesions
Pat skin dry; do not rub to dry skin
Use sunscreen
Winter cold brings many triggers to those who suffer from psoriasis. Make sure that you do all you can to minimize the affects of winter by planning ahead.
Always moisturize your skin during and in-between flare-ups. Moisturizer will prevent your skin from becoming dry, will soften pustules and prevent itching that leads to scratching which will put you at risk for more flare-ups. Use a lotion during the day, a cream or ointment at night when something thicker protects you better.
Use a humidifier whenever possible to had moisture to dry winter air. Dry air can dry out your skin and make your psoriasis worse.
Your doctor or dermatologist can give you advice for coping with winter triggers as well as being able to adjust your treatment to help prevent and clear up flare-ups.
Avoid fabrics that irritate skin such as soft synthetics and clothes that keep you warm like insulating down. A better fabric choice is to wear cotton because it breathes and keeps your skin comfortable.
