Living with Psoriasis

If you have been diagnosed with psoriasis, you are adjusting to the challenges of managing your skin condition. But a diagnosis of psoriasis does not have to interfere with your everyday life. Millions of psoriasis patients are coping with this disease, just like you.

While there is no cure for psoriasis, there are many ways to manage your symptoms.

For starters, try the following:

• Keep the skin clean, moisturized, and protected.
  Taking daily baths and moisturizing with a heavy, oil-based moisturizer on skin protects against dry skin and can reduce scaling and calm inflamed skin. It is also important to always wear a sunscreen of at least SPF 15. Too much sun can cause a burn, which not only puts you at increased risk for skin cancer, but can also actually trigger skin symptoms.
• Maintain a healthy weight.
  Being overweight increases your risk of inverse psoriasis, and plaques often appear in skin folds and creases. Make sure you follow a diet rich in fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and lean meats, as well as omega-3 fatty acids (e.g., salmon, soybean oil, spinach). If you combine exercise with a healthy diet, you can maintain your weight and help relieve stress. Just make sure to consult with your physician before you begin any kind of exercise program. Eating healthy and exercising regularly can help keep your psoriasis symptoms under control.
• Take time out.
  Stress can trigger psoriasis symptoms, so it is important for psoriasis patients to find healthy ways to manage stress. You can try therapy or other types of stress management tools, such as meditation, yoga, or exercise. Psoriasis support groups can be helpful as well. Being part of a community of people who share the same experiences can help you recognize that you are not alone.

NEXT: Stress Management