Psoriasis is an autoimmune disease characterized by patches of irritated skin and red, raised spots called plaques. Psoriasis is not contagious, but it can be hereditary. About 17% of people who have psoriatic arthritis also have psoriasis. A person in New York with psoriatic arthritis may have a genetic predisposition to both conditions. There are five different types of psoriasis, each with its triggers. Knowing what sets off your psoriasis is the key to managing the disease. And Dr. William Long New York can help in that. Here’s a look at the most common psoriasis triggers
Alcohol
Alcohol consumption is a known psoriasis trigger for many people. It’s not clear why alcohol aggravates psoriasis, but it may be because it is a diuretic and can dehydrate the body. Alcohol may also affect the immune system and interfere with medications to treat psoriasis.
It’s not clear why alcohol aggravates psoriasis, but it is generally accepted. Alcohol consumption is a known psoriasis trigger for many people. It tends to make psoriasis outbreaks more frequent, so it’s best to avoid drinking altogether if you have psoriasis.
If you are dependent on alcohol, your doctor will guide you on the right way to move from alcohol dependency. They may also recommend a treatment plan to help you reduce your alcohol dependence and regain control of your life. This may include detoxification, counseling, and medication therapy.
Stress
Stress is a common psoriasis trigger. It can make the immune system overreact, leading to an outbreak of psoriasis. Stress may also affect how medications work, so it’s crucial to find ways to reduce stress in your life.
There are many ways to reduce stress in your life. Some people find relaxation techniques helpful, such as yoga or meditation. Others may find relief in exercise or counseling. If you’re struggling to manage stress on your own, talk to your doctor about ways to get help.
Some Medications
Certain medications can trigger psoriasis or make it worse. These include beta-blockers, lithium, and certain antimalarial drugs. If you’re taking any of these medications and developing psoriasis, talk to your doctor about changing your prescription.
High blood pressure medications are also triggers for psoriasis. If you’re taking any such medications and developing psoriasis, talk to your doctor about changing your medication.
Injury to the Skin
Injury to the skin can trigger psoriasis. This includes sunburn, cuts, scrapes, and insect bites. It’s not clear why damage to the skin can trigger psoriasis, but it may be because the body overreacts to the injury and triggers an immune response.
If you have psoriasis, it’s vital to protect your skin from injury. This includes using sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and avoiding excessive sun exposure. If you injure your skin, it’s essential to treat the injury promptly and carefully to avoid triggering an outbreak of psoriasis.
Infections
Certain infections can trigger psoriasis or make it worse. These include strep throat, tonsillitis, and HIV. It’s not clear why infections can trigger psoriasis, but it may be because the body’s immune system overreacts to the infection. If you have psoriasis, it’s vital to get prompt treatment for any infections.
Psoriasis is a skin condition that affects millions of people worldwide. While the cause of psoriasis is still unknown, it is believed to be related to the immune system and genetics. There are many different triggers for psoriasis, some of which are alcohol consumption, stress, certain medications, and infection. If you have psoriasis, it’s essential to be aware of the different triggers and how to avoid them.