Stress can cause psoriasis

Psoriasis is not an infected disease. However a person’s lifestyle has more to deal with it

“Ten out of hundred persons have psoriasis gene, but only two to three might be at the risk of having this skin disease,” says Dr Syed Shazia Fatima, consultant cosmetologist at Kosmoderma skin and hair clinics, Hyderabad.

Speaking with the CityTAB, she explains how stress can be a possible reason for psoriasis and the natural therapy that can relieve the disease to an extent. “There are many ways on how the disease is triggered. Change in lifestyle is the main reason.

Any kind of stress emotional, mental or physical will cause chemical reactions in our body and affects the immune system. This will then have a direct affect on skin, which can cause psoriasis,” she says.

“People need to practice yoga and meditation to keep them fit and healthy. Practising these will help them control their stress level,” suggests Dr Shazia. The symptoms of psoriasis include an itchy skin with scales on it and a red infected area with silvery white flakes around. Individuals cannot trace the disease and a dermatologist help is recommended.

There is no complete treatment available for the cure of this disease. However, exposure to sun can be helpful. “Sunlight can reduce psoriasis. But, extended exposure without prior consultation can cause skin burn and in some cases worsen it.

Phototherapy is the treatment, to treat psoriasis. In sunlight the UVB rays and UVA rays help in reducing the problem when exposed. At clinic we use UVB rays to treat the patients,” she explains.

“Sea salts are also helpful to treat psoriasis. They remove the scales and relieve the patient from itching. Epsom salts when added with warm water and soaked can also reduce the itching sensation,” the doctor suggests.

“However skin should be moisturised after this. Psoriasis gets better in sunny and beachy areas and worsens in cold, dry areas,” she adds.
Following a certain diet can also help treat and prevent psoriasis.

“Eating fish and having fish oil supplements such as omega can be helpful. Following a diet low in fat, sweets and calories is one way. Avoiding taurine rich proteins, less meat and dairy products with eggs is also recommended,” she suggests.

Psoriasis can also occur due to injuries. “When proper care is not taken, this may worsen the case and result in psoriasis. Dry, dead skin is one way to worsen the disease. Always make sure that the skin is moisturised,” advises the doctor.

“Up to 90 per cent of Indians ignore hormonal problems. They should be attentive and consult a good dermatologist to have healthy skin. Smoking and drinking also plays the role of a catalyst for psoriasis,” she explains.

“Every 28-32 days our skin regenerates. In case of psoriasis patients, the regeneration time is prolonged. This means over dryness and the rapid growth of the infection. Following a proper diet and maintaining moisture are possible ways to reduce the infection,” said the doctor on a concluding note.