Psoriasis Causes and Triggers

Plaque psoriasis is a chronic skin condition that affects millions of people worldwide. Plaque psoriasis can be itchy, painful, and sometimes embarrassing due to how it looks. But it is not contagious. Psoriasis is often a lifelong condition, and its severity can vary over time.^1,2

What causes psoriasis?

While the exact cause is not fully understood, genetics and environmental factors both play a role. Psoriasis is an autoimmune disease, which means the body’s immune system mistakenly targets healthy skin cells. As a result, the skin produces new cells too quickly.^1,3

These extra cells build up on the surface of the skin, forming red, scaly patches known as plaques. Certain things, called triggers, can cause psoriasis to develop or get worse.^1,3

What are common triggers for plaque psoriasis?

For many people, certain triggers can cause their psoriasis to flare up. These triggers differ from person to person. But understanding the common ones may help you manage your symptoms better.^2-4

Common psoriasis triggers include:^2-4

• Illness and infections
• Skin injuries
• Medicines
• Weather
• Stress
• Lifestyle factors

Illness and infections

Illness and infections are frequent triggers for psoriasis flare-ups. When your body fights off a virus or infection, your immune system becomes more active. This can lead to increased psoriasis activity.^2-4

Strep throat is one of the most common infections linked to psoriasis flares, particularly in children and young adults. Infections like bronchitis, ear infections, and tonsilitis can also trigger or worsen psoriasis.^3,4

Skin injuries

Known as the Koebner phenomenon, skin injuries can trigger psoriasis flare-ups. This means that if you injure your skin – whether from a cut, scrape, burn, bug bite, sunburn, or even tattoo – psoriasis can develop at the site of the injury.^2-4

If you have psoriasis, take extra care to protect your skin from injuries. Practice good skincare, especially when shaving or doing activities that may lead to cuts or bruises.⁴

Medicines

Certain medicines can trigger or worsen psoriasis. Drugs that may trigger a psoriasis flare include:

• Lithium (used to treat certain mental health conditions)
• Antimalarial medicines
• Steroids like prednisone
• Beta-blockers (used to treat certain heart conditions)
• Blood pressure medicines
• Arthritis medicines

Speak with your doctor about how the medicines you take could impact your psoriasis.^2-4

Weather

The environment plays a big role in psoriasis flare-ups. Cold, dry weather can make the skin dry, leading to psoriasis flare-ups. On the other hand, warm and humid weather can sometimes improve symptoms. This is because humidity helps keep the skin hydrated.^3,4

Changes in the seasons can also trigger flares, especially during the winter months. During this time, the air is drier and people tend to spend more time indoors with heated air.^3,4

Stress

Stress is a major trigger for many people with psoriasis. When we are stressed, our bodies release chemicals that can affect the immune system. A result may be worsening psoriasis symptoms. Managing stress through relaxation techniques, exercise, or therapy may help reduce flare-ups.^2-4

Lifestyle factors

Certain lifestyle habits can also affect psoriasis flares. For example, smoking and heavy alcohol use are known triggers for psoriasis. Smoking can make psoriasis worse and may even lead to the development of the condition in people who have certain genetic traits. Alcohol can make treatments work less well and may increase inflammation, leading to worse psoriasis symptoms.^2-4

Everyone is different

While these are common triggers for plaque psoriasis, remember that triggers can vary from person to person. What causes a flare-up in one person may not affect someone else. Keep track of your personal triggers with a journal or diary. If you notice a pattern, share it with your doctor. You can work together to avoid your triggers and create a treatment plan that reduces flare-ups.³