3. Stress
While experts don’t know exactly why, stress is a common psoriasis trigger. Research suggests that psychological stress plays a regulatory role in the immune system, increasing inflammation in the body and affecting the skin barrier.
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A stressful trigger could come in the form of a move, a breakup, or the loss of a job. And, of course, psoriasis itself is stressful. As a result, stress and psoriasis symptoms can fuel each other: Psoriasis is a chronic disease that causes stress, and stress makes psoriasis worse.
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You can help reduce stress by learning stress management techniques, such as meditation or yoga, and getting regular exercise. You can also get help from a strong support system of friends and family members. In addition, many people benefit from psoriasis support groups.
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4. Smoking and Drinking
Both alcohol and smoking are common triggers for psoriasis symptoms and can make psoriasis treatment harder.
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An occasional glass of wine probably won’t hurt you, but some research has shown that an increase in alcohol consumption leads to an increase in the severity of psoriasis symptoms.
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According to the National Psoriasis Foundation, research has shown that smoking increases your risk of psoriasis, impacts the severity of the disease, and can contribute to other health conditions, such as cardiovascular disease.
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The World Health Organization notes that “even low levels of alcohol consumption carry some risks and can cause harm” though “most alcohol related harms come from heavy episodic or heavy continuous alcohol consumption.”
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And if you smoke, quit. If you need help quitting, talk to your doctor about smoking cessation methods.
In addition, taking other steps to live a healthy lifestyle can help you manage psoriasis, as well as improve your overall health. Getting plenty of rest and regular exercise are both important, as they help you maintain a healthy immune system and avoid flare-ups, especially those triggered by illness. Sticking with a healthy, anti-inflammatory diet can also help.
5. Medications
Certain medications are common psoriasis triggers. Treatments that can trigger psoriasis symptoms include beta-blockers that may be used for heart disease, lithium (Lithobid) and other medications that are used to treat some mental health disorders, corticosteroids like prednisone (if you stop taking it altogether instead of tapering off your use), and several drugs for malaria.
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Talk to the prescribing doctor if you think a medication is triggering your flares. Never change or discontinue medication without first checking with your doctor.
Sticking to your treatment plan, identifying and avoiding your triggers, keeping your immune system healthy by reducing stress, avoiding illness, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle are the best ways to keep psoriasis under control.
The Takeaway
- Skin injuries, cold weather, stress, smoking, drinking, and certain medications can trigger psoriasis flares in some people. Identifying your personal psoriasis triggers can help you manage symptoms more effectively.
- Protecting your skin from harm, staying moisturized, and maintaining good skin-care habits can help prevent injury-related flares.
- Stress management through techniques like meditation, yoga, and strong personal support systems can help alleviate flares.
- If you suspect medications are responsible for your psoriasis flares, consult your doctor before making any changes. It’s important to stick with your treatment plan to keep psoriasis under control.
