Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that causes raised red, scaly patches. It’s most often triggered by environmental and genetic factors related to the immune system. There is no known cure for psoriasis, and it is estimated to affect about 4 million Americans. Patients experience dry, flaky skin that can crack, bleed, itch, and cause pain.
Psoriasis can occur at any age, but it usually affects older adults. It is also more commonly found in women than men, accounting for about 13 percent of all cases. You can visit Sanford Dermatology for diagnosis and treatment of psoriasis. There are several treatment options available that not only lessen symptoms but also improve the appearance of the skin.
Let us now see into some common factors that trigger psoriasis.
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An injury or insect bite
Psoriasis is more likely to develop when there is an injury. This can be an insect bite or a cut on your skin. Watch out for these so that they don’t get infected. It’s likely that you’ll notice a red patch at the area of the bug bite or cut within 12-24 hours and see bleeding, oozing, or swelling after 48 hours. You may also experience itching and burning where the insect bit you.
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Excessive consumption of alcohol
While it’s widely known that drinking too much alcohol can contribute to liver disease, heart disease, and stroke, it can also cause psoriasis flare-ups. The over-consumption of alcohol can aggravate psoriasis symptoms and even trigger new ones.
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Smoking
Smoking increases the risk of developing psoriasis by a whopping 80 percent, according to studies. Just like alcohol, smoking triggers psoriasis flare-ups by causing inflammation, damage, and possible scarring to the skin.
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Stress
A lot of studies have shown that stress can trigger psoriasis and worsen existing symptoms. Some people have a higher threshold when it comes to their stress levels, but others experience painful flare-ups when they are under a lot of stress or worry.
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Hormonal changes
There is a hormone called human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG, that may cause psoriasis. It’s produced by the placenta during pregnancy. Factors like weight gain after pregnancy or thyroid disease may also contribute to triggering psoriasis.
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Genetics
Genetics can play a huge role in triggering psoriasis by making the immune system trigger an inflammatory response in the body. The inflammatory response makes you more prone to having psoriasis because it leads to skin irritation, cracking, and inflammation.
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Certain medications
Certain prescribed medications can cause psoriasis. This includes common arthritis painkillers, such as ibuprofen and aspirin, which may decrease your skin’s ability to heal. Prescription antidepressants are also linked to psoriasis flare-ups.
