Psoriasis, which can first show symptoms between the ages of 15 and 25, often has a severe impact on an individual’s physical health as well as their confidence. A chronic condition, psoriasis occurs when new skin cells replace the old too quickly, creating areas of skin with thick, scaly red patches of various sizes. In some cases, the skin condition also creates swelling and pain in the joints, called psoriatic arthritis. Approximately 7.5 million Americans or 2.2 percent of the population suffers from psoriasis, according to the National Psoriasis Foundation.

Fortunately, there are treatments available for psoriasis that can reduce the severity of the symptoms. For example, your dermatologist may prescribe medicated skin products, UV treatments, or other systemic  medications  to reduce symptom severity, although it may take time to determine which course of treatment will yield the best results. 

For most, symptoms often become worse following certain triggers. Therefore one of the best steps you can take in controlling your psoriasis is to identify and avoid those triggers that can cause flare-ups. Stephanie Mehlis, MD, Dermatologist at NorthShore, highlights some common psoriasis symptom triggers:

• Infection
• Scratching the skin
• Medication
• Smoking
• Stress/anxiety
• Sunburn

How do you cope with symptoms of psoriasis? What triggers your symptoms?