Psoriasis is a condition of irritated patches of skin. These spots of irritated skin are most often seen on the elbows, knees, and trunk, but can appear anywhere on the body. Doctors think this condition is occurs when the immune system mistakes healthy cells for dangerous substances. There is no way to prevent it, but to help your condition; you need to look for the best psoriasis treatment. Here are some things you can do to help the condition:
- Keep your skin moist.
- Avoid cold, dry climates. Cold weather may make symptoms worse. Hot, humid weather and sunlight may improve symptoms. (But hot, humid weather may make certain types of psoriasis worse.)
- Avoid scratching and picking skin, and avoid skin injuries (cuts or scrapes). An injury to the skin can cause psoriasis patches to form anywhere on the body, including the site of the injury. This includes injuries to your nails or nearby skin while trimming your nails.
- Avoid stress and anxiety. Stress may cause psoriasis to appear suddenly (flare) or can make symptoms worse, although this has not been proved in studies.
- Avoid infection. Infections such as strep throat can cause one type of psoriasis (called guttate psoriasis) to appear suddenly, especially in children.
- Try to avoid certain medicines. Some, including beta-blockers and lithium, have been found to make psoriasis symptoms worse. When your doctor prescribes any medicines for you, tell him or her that you have psoriasis.
- Limit alcohol to no more than 2 drinks a day for men or 1 drink a day for women. This may help control psoriasis, especially for men.
- Don’t smoke. Smoking may make you more likely to get psoriasis and may make it more severe. Smoking may also make your symptoms last longer.
There are topical creams on the market that can help as well. Revitol psoriasis cream is a very popular choice, but ask you doctor about the best treatment options for you.