What Makes Psoriasis Worse? Causes and Treatment Options

Those with psoriasis know how tough it can be to keep their condition from flaring up in their everyday surroundings. The autoimmune condition can be triggered or worsened by skin injuries, stress, certain medications, alcohol and smoking. It affects 3% of the U.S. population, causing skin lesions and discomfort that can affect your everyday life. Fortunately, avoiding common triggers and making certain lifestyle changes can help keep your symptoms at bay, while many treatments can provide lasting relief.

Schedule an appointment to explore psoriasis treatments at Berman Skin Institute today.

What Is Psoriasis?

Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune disease that causes inflamed, red, raised skin patches. These patches, known as plaques, can appear anywhere on the body but are most likely to arise on the lower back, knees, elbows and scalp. Psoriasis is not contagious and has no cure, but it can be managed with various treatments.

While plaque psoriasis is the most common type, other forms include guttate, inverse and pustular psoriasis, each with its own specific symptoms and location. Common symptoms include:

• Red, raised and scaly patches of skin.
• Itchiness, burning or pain in affected areas.
• Thick, pitted nails.
• Joint pain and swelling in psoriatic arthritis.

While the exact cause of psoriasis is unknown, researchers believe it could be from a mix of genetic and environmental factors. Topical medications, phototherapy and oral drugs for the immune system may help you manage psoriasis symptoms. Meanwhile, lifestyle changes like stress management and avoiding certain triggers can help reduce flare-ups.

Major Psoriasis Triggers to Avoid

Below are some psoriasis flare-up causes so you can avoid them and prevent uncomfortable symptoms.

Skin Injuries

Even the slightest cut, bug bite or scrape can aggravate psoriasis or cause lesions around the site. This is called the Koebner phenomenon, where new skin lesions that resemble psoriasis can appear on healthy skin. Any injury, including wounds, burns, tattoos or piercings, can bring on these lesions.

Since minor injuries are hard to avoid due to everyday tasks, try to wear long sleeves and pants regularly. Gloves can also come in handy during tasks like gardening, washing dishes or anything that could put your hands at risk.

Trigger Foods

Certain foods can also trigger psoriasis flare-ups. Try to limit the following foods to avoid worsening symptoms:

• Red meat, especially fat cuts, which contribute to inflammation
• Gluten and added sugars, which are linked to increased inflammation
• Processed foods with refined carbs, added sugar and unhealthy fats
• Refined carbs like white bread, pasta and processed grains
• Dairy products, especially cow’s milk, containing the protein casein that can trigger inflammation

The response to these foods depends on the person. Track your diet to determine if anything is triggering your psoriasis so you can limit or avoid it in the future.

Certain Medications

Some medications can negatively affect the body’s immune system and autoimmune response, which can worsen psoriasis:

• Beta-blockers
• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, both over-the-counter and prescription
• Medications like hydroxychloroquine (Plaquenil) and chloroquine
• ACE inhibitors
• Interferons
• Lithium
• Terbinafine

Check your medicine cabinet to see if you take any of these drugs. Your provider might suggest other treatments that don’t cause flare-ups to help you manage your health.

Weather Conditions

Psoriasis can be triggered when it’s too hot or too cold outside. Cold weather can take moisture from the skin, causing it to become dry and irritated. Hot temperatures and excess sun exposure can trigger flares and lead to sunburn, irritating the skin further. You can manage your psoriasis in these weather conditions by applying moisturizer several times a day, especially after bathing, to lock in moisture and prevent dryness.

A humidifier can also help add moisture to the air and reduce dryness that worsens psoriasis symptoms. Be sure to avoid hot showers, which can strip your skin of natural oils and dry it out.

Stress

Stress hormones like cortisol disrupt the immune system, which causes more inflammation and, in turn, worsens psoriasis symptoms like itching, redness and flaking. You can manage stress with relaxation techniques, exercise and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). With stress under control, you can reduce the severity of flare-ups and improve your overall well-being.

Alcohol and Smoking

Smoking and drinking alcohol are linked to increased risk of psoriasis and worsened severity. Smoking, in particular, has been shown to increase the chances of developing the skin condition and can affect how well it responds to treatment. Drinking alcohol can also trigger or worsen psoriasis. While symptoms can differ depending on the person, those with psoriasis may benefit from limiting their drinks to one or two a week.

Treatment Options for Managing Psoriasis

While it isn’t always possible to avoid every psoriasis trigger, numerous treatment options can bring relief from your symptoms. You’ll want to discuss these options with a dermatologist. They can help determine the best treatment for your skin type and symptoms, whether a single medication or a combination. Here are some common treatments for psoriasis:

• Topical treatments: Corticosteroids and vitamin D analogs can be applied directly to your psoriasis. They are most effective for mild and moderate symptoms.
• Phototherapy: Light therapy, or phototherapy, uses ultraviolet light targeted directly at the affected area to reduce inflammation and cell growth in people with psoriasis.
• Systemic medications: These include methotrexate and cyclosporine, which may help treat significant psoriasis concerns. However, taking cyclosporine can carry potential risks like kidney damage and skin cancer.
• Biologics: These are a class of medications that target specific immune system components, helping treat significant psoriasis issues or psoriatic arthritis.
• Lifestyle modifications: Certain lifestyle changes, like moisturizing often and managing stress, can help you keep psoriasis symptoms under control.

Recent Advancements in Psoriasis Research

Recent research shows promising new treatments for psoriasis. Biologic drugs, like mirikizumab, can target specific pathways, improving efficacy. Small molecule inhibitors offer even more options, and combining biologics with methotrexate can enhance results. Topical treatments are also advancing, with microneedles and nanoparticles making it easier to deliver these drugs for better outcomes.

Certain technologies, like biomarkers and multiomics, also pave the way for more personalized skin treatments. These tools can help diagnose psoriasis, predict how well patients respond to treatments and help providers make the best therapeutic choices for their patients.

Psoriasis Relief Starts Here

Psoriasis can be challenging, with triggers like stress and certain foods causing flare-ups. Fortunately, effective treatments are available. From advanced topical solutions to innovative biologics, relief is within reach. Berman Skin Institute blends cutting-edge technology and medications with compassionate care to treat psoriasis and other skin conditions.

Our providers will work with you, creating a personalized treatment plan for your unique needs and psoriasis symptoms. We provide phototherapy, prescription medications and other treatments for psoriasis to promote lasting relief. Schedule your appointment today, and let us help you achieve healthier, happier skin!