Many of you who are suffering from Psoriasis might have observed that during winter the Psoriasis symptoms start appearing (especially new onset) and during the summer it subsides naturally. Though the initial appearance and disappearance are only pre-warning symptoms which suggest that one should take appropriate measures to correct oneself. But many will ignore this condition thinking that it’s just a skin condition or else some consult doctors and take medication so that symptoms will disappear.
The real reason for this is fascinating to know. As these changes occur according to the season we should analyze the effect of this on the body. Harmonious Tridoshas in the body is the key factor in being healthy. These doshas will get impaired for many reasons like food, lifestyle, etc…. In the same way, the external environment also plays a very vital role in changing the doshas in the body.
In Ayurveda, the relation between doshas and the seasonal changes are elaborately explained in the daily regimen (Dinacharya) and seasonal regimen (Rutucharya). As it’s mentioned during the cold season, there will be a predominance of Sheeta (coldness) and Rookshata (dryness) by nature. So these qualities of the season will increase the similar qualities in the body also gets increases spontaneously. Everyone can notice this by simple observation at their own skin itself. Ayurveda says that similar things will increase similar things. So changes in nature will definitely aggravate the doshas which have these qualities. Now let us have a look which doshas have the qualities of Dryness and Cold.
The qualities of Vata are:
- Rooksha – Dryness
- Laghu – Lightness
- Sheeta – Coldness
- Khara – Roughness
- Sookshma – Minuteness
- Chala – Movement
These are the qualities of Vata.
Why psoriasis gets exasperate in winter?
The Vata dosha has these properties and during the cold season, Vata gets increases. Now let us see the symptoms of Psoriasis: Psoriasis signs and symptoms can vary from, person, to person, but mostly one or few symptoms mentioned below are seen.
- Red patches of skin covered with silvery scales.
- Itching, burning or soreness.
- Small scaling spots.
- Dry cracked skin that may bleed.
- Thickened, pitted or ridged nails.
- Swollen and stiff joints.
Though in Psoriasis there is involvement of all the three doshas (Vata, Pitta, Kapha) predominantly, one can observe the certain symptoms related to Vata dosha like dryness, roughness, cracks, scaling, etc.
How to prevent the aggravation of Psoriasis in winter?
This can be achieved by following the seasonal regimen and daily regimen. Winter Care for Psoriasis:
- Application of Medicated Oils and Ghee (Clarified butter) will help in keeping your skin moist can help reduce redness and itching.
- Avoid taking a very hot shower for a very long time in winter. This will remove the moisture from the skin and increases the dryness in the skin.
- Destressing Yoga or meditation will help to reduce the stress level, where stress can worsen Psoriasis.
- Stay fit, keep yourself healthy, because the certain medication may flare up Psoriasis.
- Drinking hot water will help to keep skin moisturized.
- Stay in a warm place, choose your clothes to keep you warm.
Also, Read about Tips for Winter Psoriasis and Psoriatic Arthritis