Living with Psoriasis: Lifestyle and Environmental Factors - Minimizing Flare-ups

Scalp psoriasis is a chronic disease, and will have periods of remission as well as flare-ups. It is important that patients understand the factors that trigger flare-ups and general worsening of symptoms.

Below are some common environmental factors that often cause psoriasis to worsen. The factors that trigger and worsen scalp psoriasis vary from individual to individual, but the guidelines below will provide some clues as to what may be causing flares.

Changing Seasons

Psoriasis often becomes worse during the winter months, and clears during the summer. Dry and cold weather is thought to have a negative effect on psoriasis and often triggers flares. Moisturizing becomes even more important during the winter months, especially if you live in an area where the winter months are extremely dry or cold. Sunlight, which has the effect of clearing psoriasis lesions, is also lacking during the winter months.

Stress

Stress is a major factor for initially triggering psoriasis, as well as breakouts occurring. Stress can arise from various sources such as illness, work, interpersonal relationships, or psoriasis itself. Lifestyle improvements starting with nutrition, exercise, and getting plenty of sleep can reduce stress, and make a significant difference.

Illness and Infections

It isn't uncommon for the flu or the common cold to initially trigger psoriasis. Other infections can also alter the regular function of the immune system, triggering psoriasis for those who may have that tendency. Illnesses can re-trigger these same conditions, and start a breakout.

Diet

The connection between diet and psoriasis is still being debated. There is some circumstantial evidence that suggests that high calorie foods, meat, and high cholesterol foods can contribute to worsening of psoriasis. There is a correlation between obesity and severity of psoriasis. Allergic reactions may also need to be taken into consideration if there are certain food groups that seem to affect your psoriasis.

Alcohol and Cigarettes

Alcohol and cigarettes are both factors that can worsen psoriasis. It is recommended that these be reduced or eliminated. It is thought that the negative effect that it can have on the immune system, triggers the mechanism that causes psoriasis.

Cuts and Scrapes

Called the Koebner Phenoenon, psoriasis lesions tend to form where the skin is injured. If you have psoriasis, and especially if they are active, we recommend that you try to keep the possibility of injuries to a minimum. Common causes of injuries and koebnerized psoriasis include scratching vigorously, sunburns, and peeling scales.