What Triggers or Worsens Psoriasis? Common Causes and How to Manage Them

Psoriasis is more than a skin condition—it's a complex interplay of genetics, immune response, and environmental factors.

Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune disease characterized by raised, red patches covered with silvery scales. While there is no cure, understanding what triggers or worsens symptoms is crucial to managing the condition effectively.

Genetic Factors: The Inherent Predisposition

Psoriasis has a strong genetic component. Research indicates that if one parent has psoriasis, a child has about a 18.4% chance of developing it. If both parents are affected, this risk can rise to approximately 70%.

Certain genes are associated with the immune system's function, and inheriting these can make an individual more susceptible. It's important to understand that while you can't change your genetics, being aware of a family history can lead to earlier diagnosis and proactive management.

Immune System Dysregulation: The Internal Battle

At its core, psoriasis is an immune-mediated disease. A malfunction in the immune system causes T-cells to become overactive, triggering inflammation and accelerating the growth cycle of skin cells.

This faulty immune response causes new skin cells to develop in days rather than weeks. The body can't shed these excess cells quickly enough, leading to their accumulation on the skin's surface, forming plaques and scales.

Common Environmental & Lifestyle Triggers

While genetics load the gun, environment often pulls the trigger. Identifying and managing these external factors is key to controlling flare-ups.

• Stress: High emotional or physical stress is one of the most common triggers. It can worsen existing symptoms or cause a new flare-up.
• Skin Injuries: The Koebner phenomenon is a well-known response where psoriasis appears on areas of the skin that have been injured, such as by cuts, scrapes, sunburns, or even vaccinations.
• Infections: Illnesses that disrupt the immune system, particularly streptococcal infections (like strep throat), are a common trigger for guttate psoriasis, especially in children.
• Weather: Cold, dry weather often worsens symptoms by drying out the skin. Conversely, for some, hot, sunny weather can lead to improvement.
• Medications: Certain drugs, such as lithium, beta-blockers, and antimalarial medications, are known to potentially induce or exacerbate psoriasis.
• Lifestyle Habits: Smoking and heavy alcohol consumption are strongly linked to an increased risk of developing psoriasis and more severe flare-ups.

The Diet Connection: Foods That May Influence Inflammation

The link between diet and psoriasis is highly individual, but some common inflammatory foods may play a role for many people.

• Highly Processed Foods: Foods high in refined sugars, carbohydrates, and saturated fats can promote inflammation.
• Red Meat and Dairy: These contain a type of fat that can be converted into inflammatory compounds in the body.
• Alcohol: It can dehydrate the body and is a common trigger for flare-ups.
• Nightshades: Some individuals report sensitivity to vegetables like tomatoes, potatoes, eggplants, and peppers, though scientific evidence is limited.

Keeping a food diary can help you identify if specific foods correlate with your symptoms.

Managing psoriasis is a lifelong journey, not a sprint. By identifying and avoiding your personal triggers and working closely with your dermatologist on a treatment plan, you can take control of this condition instead of letting it control you.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. The information provided should not be used for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalized diagnosis and treatment.

Data source:

• https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4285384/
• https://www.psoriasis.org/about-psoriasis/#types
• https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/22860-koebner-phenomenon