Although it is important to commence treatment for psoriasis (an inflammatory skin condition) as soon as possible, it is equally important to know the different triggers which can cause the psoriasis to flare up in the first place or at a later stage. Here are some of the most common factors that can trigger an outbreak: -- Infections - infections such as candid albicans (known as thrush), human immunodeficiency virus (known as HIV), staphylococcal kin infections (known as boils), streptococcal pharyngitis (known as strep throat) as well as viral upper respiratory conditions can all trigger an outbreak. Treat the infection and the psoriasis may well lessen or even clear up. -- Injury to the Skin - people with psoriasis often become aware of fresh outbreaks of their condition a week to two weeks after their skin has been injured. This may be by severe sun burn or if the skin is cut, grazed or scratched. -- Medication - some people with psoriasis can develop a reaction to certain medications and the main culprits are anti-malarial drugs, beta-blockers, corticosteroids, Indomethacin and Lithium. If you have psoriasis, or a family history of this skin condition, then it is wise to tell your doctor before he prescribes any of these medications. There are usually substitutes. -- The weather - those who live in a cold climate may well find this to be a trigger. Cold winter weather is often dry, and spending much of the time indoors with the heating on can dry out the skin. A hot and sunny climate on the other hand can help to clear the skin as long as you are not in an air conditioned environment. It is very important to keep the skin moisturized. -- Stress - this is probably top of the list as a trigger. An initial outbreak may be caused by a sudden stressful situation and then the appearance of psoriasis itself can also be very stressful. The lesions may cause those around you to stare and ask questions. They may feel uncomfortable or embarrassed. In addition, if the psoriasis is present on the hands and feet, then everyday tasks may be difficult. This together with the itching and pain can add to the stress. It is important to seek help from a qualified therapist if you are feeling overwhelming stress. -- Other triggers - in addition to the most common triggers listed above, there are various others such as smoking and heavy drinking. Obviously, it would be wise to quit smoking and/or heavy drinking if you are suffering from psoriasis although there is no guarantee that the condition would clear up. Medical studies are still in progress but it is thought that hormone levels in the body (particularly in the case of women) are another trigger in the outbreak of psoriasis. Learning to understand what can trigger an outbreak in your own case of psoriasis while finding a suitable form of treatment to both soothe the condition while clearing up the outbreak and controlling all future outbreaks, will go a long way to making this condition easier to live with. Amoils offers all natural treatments for common conditions and ailments using essential oils. Visit our