JAKARTA - Are you a psoriasis sufferer? If so, surely you know that a reddish rash and skin irritation can appear at any time. You also can't prevent some psoriasis triggers like stress and colds. But, there are many things you can do.
Reporting from Alodokter, psoriasis is an inflammation of the skin characterized by a red rash, dry, thick, scaly skin, and easily peels off. Sometimes, psoriasis is also accompanied by itching and pain. psoriasis is more common on the knees, elbows, lower back, and scalp.
Can be experienced by anyone, generally in people aged 15-35 years, psoriasis is not contagious. The exact cause is not yet known, but it is thought to be related to immune system disorders and heredity. psoriasis can also be triggered by stress, throat infections or cold weather. Here are five things that people with psoriasis should avoid.
Open wound
If you have psoriasis, the slightest wound can cause psoriasis plaques to form. This reaction is known as the Koebner phenomenon. Over 100 years ago, Dr. Heinrich Koebner, a German dermatologist, found that any sores that extend below the surface of the skin can cause plaque. Common skin sores that can cause Koebner's phenomenon include insect bites, skin scrapes and burns. This skin plaque reaction occurs in as many as 50 percent of people with psoriasis, and it can take from a few days to several weeks to develop.
Don't be harsh
Many doctors recommend bathing daily for people with psoriasis, to keep the skin clean and infection-free. The way you take care of your skin is important. Avoid bathing in hot water, as this can damage and dry out your skin. Do not take too long in the shower, clean the skin gently, not harshly, use a soap that is moisturizing and fragrance-free. After showering, gently pat your skin dry with a towel. Then, apply moisturizer while the skin is still slightly damp, to increase the effectiveness of the moisturizer.
Dry skin
Dry skin can cause itching and scratching, both of which can make your psoriasis worse. That's why you need to apply moisturizer immediately after showering. Ask your doctor to recommend the best cream or ointment for moisturizing the skin. Be careful with over-the-counter moisturizers that claim to have natural ingredients.
Sunlight
You probably know that sunlight is good for psoriasis. Sun exposure slows down your immune system and helps your skin produce more vitamin D, which can also help psoriasis. However, too much sun can cause sunburn, and that can make psoriasis worse. Ask your doctor how much sun is safe for you and when you should apply sunscreen.
Scratching plaque
While it's tempting when your itching gets worse, don't scratch the plaque with your nails. Scratching can lead to more of the Koebner phenomena mentioned earlier. Good skin care with skin creams, can relieve itching on dry skin. Try to cool off persistent itching, by keeping your home and office at a comfortable temperature. Use clothes with sweat absorbent fabrics and cool to wear.
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