Dr Kola Tytler MBBS CertHE MBA MRCGPClinical Lead • iatroX
For patients with chronic plaque psoriasis, several lifestyle modifications can be recommended to help improve their condition and reduce the risk of exacerbations NICE CKS,NICE CG153. These include:
- Smoking cessation: Advise patients to stop smoking if appropriate NICE CKS,NICE CG153.
- Alcohol consumption: Encourage patients to drink alcohol within recommended limits NICE CKS,NICE CG153.
- Weight management: Recommend weight loss for patients who are overweight or obese NICE CKS,NICE CG153. Low-quality evidence suggests that obese individuals may experience a greater reduction in psoriasis severity with strict caloric restriction NICE CKS. Dietary intervention in obese patients with psoriasis has been shown to improve dermatology quality-of-life scores and reduce BMI NICE CKS. A dietary intervention combined with an exercise programme may also improve psoriasis severity, though results are inconclusive NICE CKS.
- Stress and mental well-being: Assess for and manage associated stress, distress, anxiety, and/or depression NICE CKS,NICE CG153.
- Physical activity: Offer preventative advice and healthy lifestyle information, including support for increased physical activity NICE CG153.
This lifestyle advice should be tailored to the individual's needs and circumstances NICE CG153.