Staying Home for Long… With Psoriasis

Psoriasis (Psoriasis) has clinical presentations that include plaques with silvery scale, distributed symmetrically on the trunk, scalp and nails. Factors associated with psoriasis include genetics, certain infections, smoking, alcohol, and certain medications. Psoriasis is clearly associated with cardiovascular disease, obesity and diabetes. Severe or worsening psoriasis may contribute to anxiety, low mood or depression.

Tips for managing psoriasis while staying home for extended periods:

• Hand sanitiser — safe to use even with psoriasis on hands or arms. Always follow with a heavy moisturiser every time you wash your hands.
• Masks — wearing one does not cause skin dampness or worsen psoriasis.
• Alcohol and smoking — strongly discouraged. Both can trigger flares, even when consumed or used alone.
• Diet — reduce food intake to match your lower activity level at home. Weight gain can worsen psoriasis inflammation.
• Watch for infection — if you develop a fever, pause immunosuppressant medications until you feel well again.
• Exercise — aerobic exercise is good for your heart, your weight and your psoriasis, and also reduces stress.
• Gentle morning sun — early morning sun before 8am or late afternoon after 4pm is low in UVB and beneficial for psoriasis and natural vitamin D production.
• Continue as normal — keep applying your topical medications and moisturisers, and continue oral or injectable medications as prescribed.