Psoriasis is just one of many skin conditions that can negatively impact people’s lives, but you don’t have to just lie down and take it. The experts at Penstein Dermatology in New York, NY are committed to helping you find the relief you desire and deserve.

Living With Psoriasis

Psoriasis is an irritating – and often embarrassing – condition that millions of Americans suffer from. It typically shows up as an itchy, scaly rash around the scalp, elbows, and knees, but it can flare up anywhere. It happens when new skin cells form faster than they should.

Unfortunately, the exact cause of this rapid skin cell development is still somewhat of a mystery. The issue is believed to lie in the immune system, though.

Without a full understanding of the condition, no cure has been found. However, understanding the common triggers of psoriasis flare-ups and the treatments available can help you find relief.

Potential Psoriasis Triggers

There are several things that can trigger a psoriasis flare-up. Learning what triggers your own can help you find ways to minimize or avoid them. The following are some of the most common triggers.

Stress

Any time a person is stressed, different components of the body are affected. For people with psoriasis, stress can trigger a faster production of skin cells, leading to a flare-up.

At the same time, many people get stressed by the irritation and appearance of psoriasis, causing a flare-up to last longer. Learning to manage stress on a daily basis can help reduce flare-ups and minimize how long they last.

Illnesses

Since psoriasis is somehow tied to the immune system, it’s not hard to understand how being sick might cause a flare-up. Issues like a respiratory infection or ear infection are common psoriasis triggers.

Damage to the Skin

Sunburns, vaccination sites, bug bites, and even small scratches might not do much harm to many people. However, someone with psoriasis can suffer a major flare-up from such issues.

Climate and Weather

Your environment can play a significant role both in your health and in your skin. A cold or humid atmosphere, dry air, and too much or too little sunlight can all cause a flare-up.

Managing Psoriasis In New York, NY

Although there is no cure, there are ways to manage your psoriasis. In addition to avoiding triggers when possible, there are topical, oral, and injectable treatments available. Some psoriasis sufferers also find options like phototherapy helpful. The dermatologists at Penstein Dermatology can help you find the best treatment for your needs.

If you’re tired of psoriasis controlling your life, let the experts at Penstein Dermatology in New York, NY help. Call (212) 517-5171 to schedule an appointment today.