According to current studies, more than 8 million Americans suffer from psoriasis, but what is it really? By definition, psoriasis is a condition that causes skin cells to multiply rapidly, and consequently build-up on the surface of the skin. This can cause scaly, red patches that are often itchy, painful, and sore. While the exact cause is unclear, psoriasis is thought to be related to an immune system issue with T-cells and other white blood cells, called neutrophils, in the body. T-cells normally travel through the body to defend against internal intruders, such as viruses or bacteria. But if you have psoriasis, the T-cells attack healthy skin cells by mistake, as if to heal a wound or to fight an infection, thus causing a scaly build-up of skin cells on the surface.

 

While it is considered a chronic condition, fortunately psoriasis can be managed through a variety of methods. Check out our top tips for managing psoriasis and its symptoms below!

 

1. Avoid Stressors

While stress is never 100% avoidable, you can give your body a fighting chance and help prevent psoriasis flare-ups by staying away from certain internal and external stressors.  It’s a well-known fact that tobacco and alcohol can compromise even the healthiest of immune systems, but if you suffer from psoriasis, you’ll want to avoid that second glass of wine or after supper cigarette. Additionally, why you may not be able to avoid stress at work or home, adopting some easy stress release practices, such as yoga or meditation, may help reduce stress enough to prevent your immune system from going into overdrive.

 

2. Treat Your Skin Right

Did you know bathing or showering in hot water could make your psoriasis worse? Hot water is notorious for drying out the skin and causing flare-ups. We recommend soaking or showering in lukewarm water to help prevent a painful trigger. Additionally, a lukewarm bath with epsom salts, milk, or olive oil could help relieve the painful symptoms of psoriasis. In fact, mixing a tablespoon of olive oil with your body moisturizer actually helps to seal in essential moisture, and adds an additional layer of topical protection when applied to active psoriasis breakouts.

 

3. Consider Participating in a Clinical Trial

Modern medicine continues to make incredible strides in helping to manage psoriasis, with Jacksonville Center for Clinical Research on the front lines of exploring new and exciting treatments. Contact us to schedule a free consultation to see if you qualify for one of our clinical research studies. If you qualify for one of our clinical trials, your health will be closely monitored by our team of expert medical professionals throughout the trial.  It is an accepted statistic that people who participate in clinical trials generally improve their overall health, as they are given access to cutting edge clinical techniques and healthcare experts dedicated to their individual needs.