Keys to treating psoriasis with the help of your dermatologist in the Frederick area
Psoriasis may affect different people to varying degrees. Since we are all different, it is important that each of our patients work with us towards the repression of psoriatic symptoms and learn their own triggers. The more that is understood about your psoriasis experience, the better we can maximize the treatment plant devised in our office.
Stress and psoriasis
Stress is a natural part of life. There are certain times of year, however, or circumstances that can worsen the symptoms of psoriasis. Reducing stress is one way in which patients can empower themselves as they collaborate with their board certified dermatologist in the management of chronic psoriasis. Some of the ways stress can be reduced include:
- Schedule massages or relaxing spa treatments regularly; the stimulation of muscles during massage has been linked to an improvement in psoriatic arthritis.
- Begin each day with ten minutes of meditation.
- Take short walks throughout a workday if your job places you under stress.
- Engage in yoga or biofeedback.
Evidence suggests that conventional therapies can be maximized by these and other mind-body techniques.
Lifestyle habits and psoriasis
Habits such as alcohol consumption and smoking are a matter of concern for those with psoriasis. Alcohol is not only recognized as a potential trigger for the worsening of symptoms, but is also thought to inhibit the effectiveness of some medications used in the treatment of psoriasis. Smoking is a known trigger for psoriasis, as well. Research has shown that this habit affects the severity of symptoms, with those who smoke regularly experiencing more severe symptoms than non-smokers or even light smokers.
Weather and psoriasis
Our skin is affected by our environment, even without chronic conditions such as psoriasis. Those who live in regions where the air is cold and dry, or where UV rays are limited, may experience more severe symptoms than those in more humid, sunny climates.
In our region, there may be months in which the sun is obstructed by clouds and the air becomes quite dry. We encourage our patients to moisturize their skin every day with a gentle moisturizer recommended for psoriasis-affected skin. Patients may also benefit from phototherapy treatments, which apply precise, narrowband UVB light to the skin.
The team at the Washington Dermatology Center has a great deal of experience treating psoriasis. Our patients from Frederick, Rockville, and surrounding areas can count on our level of expertise to achieve optimal results. Contact us today for your consultation with Dr. Prussick or one of his associates.