Introduction:
Psoriasis is an autoimmune condition that causes inflammation in your skin. Symptoms of psoriasis include thick areas of discoloured skin covered with scales. These thick, scaly areas are called plaques. Psoriasis is a chronic skin condition, which means it can flare up unexpectedly and there’s no cure.
Psoriasis cannot be cured or treated completely. It can ONLY BE MANAGED using various treatment options available.
Causes:
- An over-reactive immune system.
- Family history.
- Emotional stress.
- An infection (streptococcal infection).
- A skin injury like cuts, scrapes or surgery.
- Certain medications, such as beta-blockers.
- Changes in body temperature due to the weather.
Symptoms:
- A rash or a raised area of thick skin.
- The skin on the plaque is discoloured.
- Patches of thick, red skin with silvery-white scales that itch or burn.
- The plaque is scaly or flaky and sheds easily.
- Thick, ridged, pitted nails.
Psoriasis triggers:
Psoriasis triggers vary from person to person. What may worsen your psoriasis might not have any impact on someone else. Common psoriasis triggers include:
Stress:
Stress is one of the most common psoriasis triggers. At the same time, a psoriasis flare can cause stress. This may seem like an endless loop. However, relaxation techniques and stress management may help prevent stress from impacting psoriasis.
Injury to Skin:
Psoriasis can appear in areas of the skin that have been injured or harmed. Where scratches, sunburns, bug bites, and vaccinations can all trigger psoriasis flares.
Illness:
Anything that can affect the immune system can trigger psoriasis. That is why you may experience a flare following an ear infection, bronchitis, tonsillitis, or respiratory infection. There is a connection between streptococcus infection (strep throat) and guttate psoriasis, as it often triggers the first onset of guttate psoriasis in children.
It is possible to have strep throat without showing symptoms. If you have had strep throat in the past, talk with your health care provider about getting a strep throat test if your psoriasis flares.
Weather:
The weather may trigger a flare. Cold weather can often cause psoriasis flares due to less sunlight and humidity, heated and drier indoor air, as well as stress and illness. Warm weather can often improve psoriasis because of natural sunlight and higher humidity.
Other Possible Triggers:
Although it is less common, some people with psoriasis suspect that allergies, certain foods, alcohol, or environmental factors trigger their psoriasis. A great way to learn about your unique set of triggers is to track them over time. Keeping records of your symptoms and triggers can help you anticipate and treat your flares.
