Psoriasis is a skin condition that promotes red, itchy, scaly patches in the skin. This condition commonly occurs on the knee, elbows, trunk, and scalp of a person. It is a long-term, common condition with no definite cure. This condition is often seen to occur in cycles. However, there are treatments to manage the symptoms. One can adopt some coping strategies and lifestyle habits to keep the condition manageable. In the following article, we’ll discuss some of those remedies that’ll allow you to manage your condition in your home’s comfort.
Causes of Psoriasis
The skin conditions associated with psoriasis are often an immune system problem. It promotes skin regeneration at a rate that is faster than usual. The exact reason for this irregularity is still a mystery to the experts. However, many believe that genetics and environmental factors are often a reason behind this condition. Some possible triggers could be:
- Skin infections
- Extremely dry or cold weather
- Skin injuries caused by a cut or scrape, a bug bite, or a severe sunburn
- Exposure to smoking
- Alcohol consumption
- Side effects of certain medications
- Stress
Complications Due to Psoriasis
Psoriasis can trigger some underlying conditions. If not treated properly, it can trigger:
- Psoriatic arthritis. This promotes pain, stiffness, and swelling in and around joints.
- Various eye conditions.
- Type 2 diabetes.
- High blood pressure.
- Cardiovascular disease.
- Obesity.
- Severe mental health conditions.
- Some autoimmune diseases.
Effective Home Treatments
As we stated before, psoriasis doesn’t have a certain treatment for this time being. But, various steps can be taken to minimize and control the effects. Here are a handful of ways that you can keep a psoriasis condition in hand.
Dietary Supplements
Vitamin D, aloe vera, Oregon grapes, and fish oil can control psoriasis symptoms. However, one must check with their doctor beforehand to determine if any of these will trigger any allergies or infection.
Keep Skin Moisturized
Psoriasis is known to affect dry skin significantly. So, keeping the skin moisturized can help to keep psoriasis under control. A humidifier can significantly help with this condition. Moisturizers can also be of great assistance for sensitive skins. It’ll also help in keeping the skin free from plaque forming.
Avoid Products Containing Harsh Chemicals
Many make-up and fragrance products can contain some chemicals that can severely irritate your skin. These chemicals inflame psoriasis and promote redness and rash in your skin. Either avoid such products altogether or use those which are made for sensitive skin.
Healthy Diet
Carbohydrates, refined sugars, red meat, saturated fats, and alcohol are known agents of promoting inflammation. While cold-water fish, seeds, nuts possess the ability to reduce flaring-up of skin. Therefore, the later mentioned foods should be consumed to reduce the severity of psoriasis.
Olive oil can also soothe the irritation and inflammation developed on the skin. Gently apply on the affected area to loosen the plaques. Then take a shower to clean the area properly.
Taking a Bath
Taking a bath can be very beneficial for reducing the signs of psoriasis. Although, hot water may promote irritation in some cases. Prepare a lukewarm bath with Epsom salt, mineral oil, milk, or olive oil can significantly reduce itching while infiltrating scales and plaques. Immediately moisturizing the skin after the bath can prolong the benefit.
Light therapy
With the help of light therapy, you can achieve long-term relief from psoriasis. The blue light kills the germs that damage the skin. In contrast, red light promotes the healing of the skin cells. It also incorporates vitamin D in the skin. Light therapy can also benefit some underlying conditions that promote psoriasis.
In the past, one needed to consult a specialist to undergo this excellent process. Nowadays, many hand-held or lightbox devices are found that can be equally beneficial for treating psoriasis. Be sure to read the user manual carefully. Too much light can turn the situation otherwise and worsen the condition. However, tanning beds may not be an alternative to lightbox therapy.
Stress Reduction
Many chronic conditions are triggered by immense stress. These conditions can often promote psoriasis in the skin or can push the situation worse. Light therapy can help reduce stress in a great way. Some experts may also suggest taking on yoga or meditation to relieve stress.
Avoid Alcohol Consumption and Smoking
Alcohol can be a trigger for psoriasis for some people. This has been proven by researchers. Moreover, smoking can significantly worsen the situation. People suffering from psoriasis can develop severe skin conditions due to alcohol consumption and smoking.
Verdict
There may not be a single answer to cure psoriasis for good. Some systems can work for a person that may be making the condition worse for someone else. What we can actually do is to treat the symptoms and add some measures to control psoriasis in our lifestyle. If the condition is not severe or affecting your ability to perform daily chores or improve with treatment, you may not need to consult a doctor too often. In such cases, psoriasis can be treated while staying at home. However, if you develop discomfort or pain or have concerns about your skin condition, you should see a doctor immediately. Remember, it never hurts to seek an expert’s opinion while needed, and you may find peace of mind after getting a good thorough treatment.