There is no way to prevent Psoriasis. Steps to improve symptoms or help reduce the number of psoriasis flare-ups:
- Taking care of skin, scalp, and nails. For mild symptoms of psoriasis, various over-the-counter products, such as aloe vera, may be soothing and keep the skin moist.
- Be aware of possible medicine reactions. Certain medicines can trigger psoriasis or make symptoms worse.
- Limit alcohol to no more than 2 drinks a day for men or 1 drink a day for women. Alcohol use can cause symptoms to flare up.
- Studies haven't found any "psoriasis diet" that can cure or improve the condition, despite claims over the years. Try to eat a balanced diet and stay at a healthy weight.
What to Avoid
Avoid these triggers:
- Cold, dry climates:Cold weather may make symptoms worse. Hot, humid weather and sunlight may improve symptoms. However, hot and humid weather may make certain types of psoriasis worse.
- Scratching and picking skin: An injury to the skin can cause psoriasis patches to form anywhere on the body, other than the site of the injury. This includes injuries to nails or nearby skin while trimming nails. Avoid picking skin or scabs that form when a wound is healing.
- Stress and anxiety: Stress may cause psoriasis to appear or flare up suddenly.
- Infection: Infections such as strep throat can cause one type of psoriasis called guttate psoriasis to appear suddenly, especially in children.
- Smoking:Smoking can make psoriasis symptoms worse. Smokers must seriously consider quitting soon.
