Psoriasis can be made worse by some things at times. It helps to be aware of these aggravating factors. But remember, psoriasis can flare without any seeming cause. The following are some of the things which seem to make psoriasis worse in some people:
Skin injury and irritation
Rubbing, scratching and sunburn could all make psoriasis worse. You should try to stop mechanically irritating your psoriasis if possible. Psoriasis can develop for the first time in sites of skin injury from cuts, burns or infections.
Exposure to Sun light
For most people with psoriasis, moderate sun exposure is very helpful, but sunburn can cause psoriasis to flare. A small number (perhaps 10 percent) of people may find their psoriasis worsens with sun exposure. If you are a fair-skinned person you may need sunscreens to protect against sunburn.
Diet - eating right
No consistent linkage with psoriasis has yet been found; however there are certain important guidelines one should follow.
- A healthy balanced diet is important for personal good health.
- Some people find their psoriasis is worse if they are overweight--weight loss is helpful in controlling their psoriasis.
- Some people note that alcohol of any type will flare their psoriasis.
Stress and anxiety>
Some people find that stress and tension seems to make their psoriasis worse. If this does occur, it is important to try to find ways to lessen the stress situations.
Medications
Some drugs given for other reasons can make psoriasis worse, but certainly not in everyone. These drugs include: gold, lithium, beta-blockers such as Inderal used for hypertension. Your dermatologist should know if you are taking any medications. If you have questions by all means ask.
Infections
Some throoat and upper respiratory tract infections - especially strepto-coccal infections can make your psoriasis worse. This is most commonly seen in children and adolescents.
