Psoriasis, triggering risk factors identified

On Allies for Health focus on triggers that can favor the onset of the disease In Italy, psoriasis affects 2.5 million people (10% are affected by a moderate-severe form), men and women in equal measure, even if during puberty and menopause women record a peak in incidence. Of the disease, which manifests itself with the appearance of typical plaques in various parts of the body, several non-genetic and potentially modifiable risk factors have been identified that can favor its appearance. By acting on these elements, called triggers, it is possible to reduce relapses of the disease. This is what is reported in an article published by Allies for Health, the portal dedicated to medical-scientific information created by Novartis. There is a problem with the immune system at the root of psoriasis, but some triggers can make symptoms worse or cause flare-ups. By carefully avoiding these triggers, the frequency and severity of flare-ups can be reduced. Each flare-up is accompanied by a sharp decline in the quality of life due to physical, and therefore psychological, discomfort, due to the appearance of patches which, especially in moderate-severe forms and / or localized in visible skin areas (face, scalp, hands, nails ), can compromise interpersonal relationships. The therapies available today – reads in depth – allow a good control of the disease, but to live as peacefully as possible with this condition, which undermines the quality of social life, various studies have shown that it is possible to act on some factors related to everyday behavior. Carefully avoiding these factors – including cigarette smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, skin trauma (cuts, bruises, bumps, tattoos) can reduce the frequency and severity of flare-ups. Other conditions that can cause trauma and stress to the skin are: washing with boiling or too cold water, being immersed in water for a long time, using aggressive detergents, wearing clothes in irritating or too tight fabrics, rubbing injuries (scratching, use of sponges / abrasive gloves / scrubs or vigorously drying after washing), exposure to cold temperatures because these situations dehydrate the skin and make it dry and more prone to having a flare-up. Sufficiently moisturizing the skin, in addition to being a good daily practice, is particularly important in these cases. On the other hand, remember that warm, sunny weather seems to help control psoriasis symptoms in most people. Excessive exposure to the sun and high temperatures, however, is a risk factor for an exacerbation. Triggers include stress, high-calorie eating, certain medications, and infections such as sore throats or tonsils that can cause guttate (small salmon-pink droplets) or other types of psoriasis two to three weeks after infection. Small daily lifestyle changes coupled with drug therapy can effectively help keep psoriatic disease under control. Let’s start at the table: due to the inflammatory nature of psoriasis, it is particularly suitable to introduce fresh foods rich in vitamins and other antioxidant elements (such as fruit, vegetables and extra-virgin olive oil), omega-3 fatty acids (present in fish , nuts, flax seeds, etc.) and probiotics. It is therefore advisable to reduce the intake of foods rich in saturated fatty acids (animal fats such as butter), red meats, sausages, simple sugars and gluten in cereals. This type of diet also contributes to weight loss and the prevention of cardiovascular and metabolic diseases (including diabetes), which are particularly common in psoriatic patients. Drinking enough is also very important for psoriasis sufferers, as it helps keep the skin hydrated “from the inside”. The ideal is to take at least 1.5-2 liters of liquids per day (unsweetened or alcoholic) increasing the quantities in summer, if you practice intense physical activity and if you sweat a lot. Not just attention to nutrition. In moderate form and carried out regularly, physical activity is also essential for health and well-being, at any age, and becomes particularly important for those suffering from psoriasis, to prevent weight gain and cardiovascular and metabolic diseases, but also to control the stress. The ideal workout, to be done 2-3 times a week, involves a combination of aerobic and endurance physical activity. In general, it is best to avoid contact sports, which carry risks of skin trauma / wounds. For psoriatic arthritis sufferers yoga, pilates, swimming and aqua aerobics are a good compromise between the need for physical exercise and joint protection. Finally, the chapter on stress which promotes illness and which is at the same time a source of stress. To break the vicious circle, it is important to learn to speak openly about one’s illness and the difficulties encountered in everyday life with the doctor / dermatologist and to learn meditation techniques and emotion management. If the psychological distress is significant and prevents you from living peacefully, it is advisable to contact a psychologist / psychotherapist for personalized help. The complete article is available on: https://www.alleatiperlasalute.it/alla-scoperta-di/psoriasi-e-fattori-trigger