One of the common skin diseases is psoriasis in which skin becomes red and itchy, especially on the knees and scalp. How to avoid exacerbation of psoriasis? Can this be somehow prevented? To avoid flare-ups of psoriasis, it is important to know the triggers that cause it and the habits that can help relieve its symptoms. We will tell you what you can do to optimize the treatment of this disease.
Why Does Psoriasis Worsen?
In its most common form, psoriasis is thickened and reddened which causes itching and discomfort. The most common form is plaque psoriasis, with thick, shiny scales, or patches. According to the National Psoriasis Foundation, mild cases appear as patches that cover up to 3% of the body. But some things can even worsen psoriasis and here is a list of them:
- Any type of infection
- Smoking
- Cuts or burns
- Constant exposure to stress
- Dry air due to weather conditions or in a heated room
- Excessive drinking
- Taking certain medicines (for example, for high blood pressure)
- Vitamin D deficiency
- Obesity
Useful Tips To Avoid Exacerbation Of Psoriasis
This will reduce the impact of possible triggers and therefore complement drug treatment.
- Try To Eat Right
Nutrition plays a very important role in the fight against the psoriatic disease. You should avoid alcohol, sources of gluten, and all kinds of foods that irritate the gastrointestinal tract. It is advisable to increase the intake of foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin D, and antioxidants.
- Avoid Harmful Drugs
Some cases were reported in Australia where some people developed psoriasis a few hours after taking Ecstasy tablets. So researchers believed that severe psoriasis can be one of the ecstasy side effects, which can be treated through therapy. You need to be careful with such drugs as they will only harm your health.
- Avoid Smoking
For patients with psoriasis, tobacco is just as harmful as alcohol. In fact, smoking is classified as one of the causes of exacerbation of psoriasis. Therefore, if you have this bad habit, it is very important to try to get rid of it. There are many strategies, choose the best one for you!
- Skincare
Using emollient creams will help soothe itching and relieve dry skin. You should improve your habits to protect your skin from various environmental factors. Sunburn, dirt, and cuts can make psoriasis worse. Therefore, you should follow several tips:
- Be sure to use sunscreen (every day). Choose soft, gentle formulas with ingredients that do not cause allergies
- Moisturize your skin every day with cream for sensitive skin. Also, drink more water throughout the day
- Be careful of cuts or scratches. Take appropriate measures to treat them
- If possible, install a humidifier in your home or office to minimize the risk of dry skin
- Avoid using perfume or other irritating products. Also, don’t take too hot showers
- Manage Stress
Experiencing stress can hurt your health, especially if you already have psoriasis. Thus, you need to find ways to deal with stress. Here are some of them:
- Choose flexible working hours (if possible)
- Spend your free time doing fun things
- Keep your body healthy through proper nutrition and regular exercise
- Practice breathing techniques or meditate
- Get Proper Sleep
Try to get enough sleep to avoid exacerbation of psoriasis. Insufficient sleep is directly linked to increased stress levels and more psoriasis flares. Good sleep strengthens immune system function, reduces stress, and helps maintain a healthy weight.
The symptoms of psoriasis may be worsened by sleep disturbances so pay attention to the recommendations mentioned above.
Natural Remedies For Psoriasis
According to experts, the use of the following natural ingredients helps to relieve psoriasis, or rather, reduce itching and inflammation caused by it.
- Dermatosis And Oatmeal
Oatmeal (in all its forms) has anti-inflammatory properties, which is why it is said that its topical application is suitable for fighting psoriasis naturally. Due to its smooth texture and ease of use, oatmeal can be a good ally against unpleasant symptoms. In addition, it is believed that it has emollient properties. Here is what you need to do:
- Put the oatmeal into boiling water and let it simmer for 2 minutes
- Pour the resulting solution into a bath of water and ensure the interaction of this solution with the affected areas of the body
- 15 minutes will be enough, then just rinse with water
- Chamomile
Applying a homemade tonic or chamomile mask can also help with psoriasis, as this herb has pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory properties. Tonic is easier to prepare, so many people use it more often. You can even try drinking chamomile tea to fight psoriasis. This tea is also beneficial for the overall well-being of a person.
- Warm Olive Oil
Olive oil is a natural source of essential fatty acids and antioxidants that help improve the appearance of the skin. It is very effective to soothe itching and remove dead cells from the skin. Here is what you need to do:
- Put the olive oil on a water bath, when it becomes hot (but at an acceptable temperature), apply it with light massaging movements on the scalp, rub it in
- Wait 20 minutes and then wash off using your regular shampoo
- Repeat the procedure 2-3 times a week
- Aloe Vera Gel
Aloe Vera gel has soothing, anti-inflammatory, and moisturizing properties. It reduces redness and flaking of the skin, here is what you need to do:
- Mix Aloe Vera gel with a small amount of coconut oil and when you get a smooth paste, apply it to the affected areas of the skin
- Let it soak well and try this remedy at home
Take Away
Is it possible to cure psoriasis only with the help of these remedies? But you can choose what you like the best and use it as an adjunct to treatment if your doctor allows you to quickly get rid of unpleasant symptoms. It is also very important that you lead a healthy and consistent lifestyle.
