Living with Psoriasis: Tips for Managing Symptoms and Improving Quality of Life

According to the World Psoriasis Day consortium, around 2-3% of the world’s population (approximately 125 million people) has some form of psoriasis. It’s a condition that can affect anyone, and, according to the American Academy of Dermatology, most people who get psoriasis have it for life.

Because it can be a life-long condition, it’s important to learn about psoriasis and, if necessary, see a board-certified dermatologist to get and keep it under control. In this post we’ll take a closer look at psoriasis, what it is, how it presents itself, and when to see a doctor about it.

What is psoriasis?

Psoriasis is a skin condition in which skin cells multiply up to ten times faster than normal. As a result, the skin develops red spots that are bumpy and coated with white scales. They can grow everywhere, but the scalp, elbows, knees, and lower back are where they most frequently show up. Nobody can contract psoriasis from another individual, but members of the same family can experience it occasionally.

What are the different types of psoriasis?

There are several different types of psoriasis, each with their own characteristics.

• Plaque Psoriasis is the most common type of psoriasis, causing dry, itchy, raised skin patches (plaques) covered with scales.
• Guttate Psoriasis primarily affects young adults and children. It's usually triggered by a bacterial infection such as strep throat. It's marked by small, drop-shaped, scaling spots on the trunk, arms, or legs.
• Inverse Psoriasis mainly affects the skin folds of the groin, buttocks, and breasts. It causes smooth patches of inflamed skin that worsen with friction and sweating. Fungal infections may trigger this type of psoriasis.
• Pustular Psoriasis is a rare type of psoriasis that causes clearly defined pus-filled blisters. It can occur in widespread patches or on small areas of the palms or soles.
• Erythrodermic Psoriasis, the least common type of psoriasis, can cover the entire body with a peeling rash that can itch or burn intensely. It can be short-lived (acute) or long-term (chronic).

What factors can trigger a psoriasis outbreak?

Psoriasis can be triggered by a number of factors, including:

• Stress – Patients often report that outbreaks of symptoms come during particularly stressful times.
• Some medications – Certain drugs, such as lithium, and some beta-blockers (used to treat high blood pressure, heart disease, and some heart arrhythmias), can cause psoriasis symptom flare-ups.
• Infections – Certain infections, such as strep throat or tonsillitis, can result in guttate or other types of psoriasis two to three weeks after the infection.
• Trauma to the skin – In some people with psoriasis, trauma to the skin -- including cuts, bruises, burns, bumps, vaccinations, tattoos, and other skin conditions -- can cause a flare-up of psoriasis symptoms at the site of the injury.
• Cold and dry weather – Cold weather tends to dry out the skin, which makes the chances of having a flare-up worse.
• Hot weather – Hot weather also brings several challenges that can exacerbate psoriasis symptoms. Excessive sweating, for example, can irritate the skin and exacerbate psoriasis symptoms, which can lead to itching and discomfort. High temperatures can also cause heat rash, further irritating the skin and potentially triggering psoriasis flare-ups.
• Dehydration – Heat can lead to dehydration, which can cause dry skin. Dry skin is more prone to cracking and scaling, which can worsen psoriasis symptoms.
• Chlorine exposure – Swimming in chlorinated pools can dry out the skin and cause irritation. It can also strip the skin of its natural oils, exacerbating dryness and potentially triggering flare-ups.
• Sunburn – Excessive sun exposure, which can lead to sunburn, can trigger what’s called the Koebner Phenomenon. It’s a condition that causes new psoriasis lesions to appear at the site of the sunburn.

How do you treat a psoriasis flare-up?

While there’s no cure for psoriasis, a wide range of treatments is available that can greatly reduce symptoms, even in serious cases. Treatment options typically fall into three categories:

• Topical – Creams and ointments applied to your skin
• Phototherapy – Exposing the skin to certain types of ultraviolet light
• Systemic – Oral and injected medications that work throughout the entire body

When should you see a doctor?

If you suspect you have psoriasis, talk to a health care provider. They may have you seek medical care if your condition:

• Becomes severe or widespread
• Causes you discomfort and pain
• Causes you concern about the appearance of your skin
• Doesn't improve with treatment

A skin specialist, like a licensed dermatologist, can help you better understand your psoriasis and give you some control over the condition by:

• Learning and avoiding what triggers your psoriasis
• Finding and following a good psoriasis skin care routine
• Living a healthy lifestyle
• Using medication when necessary
• Understanding your risk and avoiding related diseases like psoriatic arthritis or diabetes

Psoriasis is common, but it can be controlled with the right treatment. So if you see the signs, talk to your healthcare provider right away and put yourself on the path to healthier, clearer skin.