Skin diseases: Psoriasis and eczema common problems during winters; expert recommends treatment

 Cold weather conditions continue in several parts of the country. People catch several diseases due to dipping temperatures. Skin diseases also see an uptick in the winter. Psoriasis and eczema are common problems during this time of the year. Hospitals are witnessing a spike in the number of patients with these two diseases. These skin-related complications can turn dangerous and therefore it becomes important to adopt safeguards against them.

Dr Bhawuk Dhir of the department of dermatology at Ram Manohar Lohia (RML) Hospital, Delhi, says that the number of patients with psoriasis and eczema increases during the winter. It is very important to take preventive measures against these diseases.

Dr Dhir says that skin diseases rise in the winter due to lack of moisture in the air, dip in temperature and rise in pollution. Besides, our skin is not used to less humidity when compared to the summer, he adds. Those suffering from eczema and psoriasis face even more trouble at this point in time. Apart from this, other complications related to the skin and hair increase.

What are eczema and psoriasis?

According to Dr Bhawuk Dhir, eczema also known as dermatitis causes red spots on the skin accompanied by a lot of itching. A white layer of skin also starts to peel off. If not treated on time, these diseases can spread to other parts of the body also.

Which other diseases are on rise?

In the winter, people also complain of dry skin, chilblains and numbness in fingers and toes. Another skin disorder called scabies also sees a spike due to a lack of hygiene as people tend to bathe less in the cold weather. This manifests as itching in fingers and armpits. Since this disease is contagious, other members of the family can also get affected by it.

How to take care of skin?

Avoid using very hot water for bathing and washing hands

Keep the room temperature in the medium range

Dont stay in the bathroom for too long

Use light soaps and moisturisers without fragrance

Continue using sunscreen as advised by your doctor, especially if you have melasma and lupus erythematosus.

How to get rid of dandruff?

Avoid using oil in the hair

Wash your scalp regularly

Use water that is neither too hot nor too cold for cleaning hair

Use anti-dandruff shampoo twice a week to clean your scalp (keep the shampoo on the scalp for 5 minutes before washing it)

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