Treatment Options

Helping Yourself

Since psoriasis has been linked to certain "triggers," it is important to try and avoid these triggers. Listed below are some things to keep in mind, however triggers often differ from person to person.

• Scratching affected skin will worsen your psoriasis and can even cause new lesions to form. Therefore, it is important not to scratch, pick, or rub psoriasis lesions.

• During the winter months, the humidity is generally lower, especially in homes with forced air heating. This tends to cause dry, itchy skin. It's important to increase your use of moisturizing creams and ointments during the winter, applying heavy layers, especially over the skin affected by psoriasis. It is helpful to apply the moisturizing cream while your skin is damp. Also, be sure to pat yourself dry after bathing - don't rub yourself with the towel.

• Natural sunlight can have a healing effect on psoriasis. The long-known benefits of sunlight provided the basis for the development of ultraviolet light therapy for treating psoriasis. However, you should be careful not to get too much sun exposure as this may cause sunburn, which can actually cause psoriasis to flare-up and worsen. Talk to your doctor to determine the appropriate amount of sunlight for you. Use sunscreen on body parts that are not affected by psoriasis.

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Note: The above information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist, or other healthcare professional. It is not intended to diagnose a health condition, but it can be used as a guide to help you decide if you should seek professional treatment or to help you learn more about your condition once it has been diagnosed.