Psoriasis[1] is a common, chronic, non-communicable skin disease without apparent cause or cure. Still, it negatively impacts a patient's quality of life, characterized by itchy red patches covered with silvery-white scales. In addition, social exclusion, discrimination and stigma are psychologically more devastating for a Psoriasis patient.
Common Triggers & How to avoid them.[1,3]
The primary treatment of psoriasis objective is to control the symptoms. The need for treatment is usually lifelong, and there is frequent reappearance.
Here's what one can do:[3,4]
Manage Stress - Meditate daily, try deep breathing and yoga & remain active physically.
Physical injury to skin- Avoid scratches, insect bites, cuts, sunburn and friction from clothing to reduce flaring; use topical ointment judiciously.
Skin Infections- Treat any infection at the earliest to avoid flaring of symptoms.
Avoid temperature extremes-
1. Wear sunscreen & sun-protective clothing
2. Use warm, not hot, water for bathing
3. Avoid sweating
4. Stay hydrated.
Foods:
To Avoid:[4,5]
1. Smoking & Alcohol - Avoid- to get rid of symptoms flare
2. Fatty Red Meat- like Beef, Pork & processed meat.
3. Foods with Gluten content and refined carbohydrates.
4. Sugar & Caffeinated food & drinks
5. Nightshade vegetables, Peppers & Paprika
To Take:[5]
1. Whole Grains,
2. Fruits and veggies, especially berries, cherries, and leafy greens
3. Salmon, flax seeds, and small fish rich in omega-3 fatty acids
4. Antioxidant-rich herbs and spices like thyme, sage, cumin, and ginger
5. Heart-healthy sources of fat, like olive oil, seeds, and nuts
What else?[2]
1. Aloe Vera: Apply gel to soothe the lesions.
2. Turmeric: Use as a paste on skin apart from food.
3. Apple Cider Vinegar: Apply in 1:1 dilution to reduce skin irritation.
4. Oats-Scrubbing body with oats has a calming effect.
[1] https://bit.ly/3Q0WZgJ
[2] https://rb.gy/ixrftn
[3] https://rb.gy/0iqjwi
[4] https://rb.gy/zzesfs
[5] https://bit.ly/3JJoSaV
