Does Psoriasis Flair Up In A Cold Damp Climate?

Posted on Mon, 12 Feb 2018

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Mon, 12 Feb 2018 Answered on

Wed, 10 Oct 2018 Last reviewed on

Question : DOES PSORIASIS FLAIR UP IN A COLD DAMP CLIMATE?

Answered by Dr. Dr. Michelle Gibson (13 minutes later)

Brief Answer:

Cold has been known to be a trigger.

Detailed Answer:

Hi!

There are environmental triggers for psoriasis- cold dry weather can trigger a flare up.

Moisture or dampness has not been shown so far to be a trigger but as mentioned, a cold environment can trigger symptoms.

During winter there is also less exposure of the skin to sunlight since persons would naturally wear more clothing.

Short term exposure to sunlight, which has been shown to be helpful, would therefore be reduced.

I hope this helps.

Regards,
Dr. Michelle Gibson James, General & Family Physician

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar