Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune disease that affects the skin, causing red, scaly patches that can be itchy and painful. While the condition primarily affects the skin, research has shown that patients with psoriasis may be more prone to developing certain health conditions due to the inflammation and insulin response associated with the disease. Understanding the potential link between psoriasis and these health conditions is important for patients with psoriasis and their healthcare providers to provide comprehensive care and manage their overall health. Here are the top health conditions that are linked to psoriasis:
1. Depression
Psoriasis can have a significant impact on a person’s mental health. The physical symptoms of the disease, such as itching, pain, and visible skin lesions, can lead to feelings of embarrassment, shame, and isolation. Furthermore, the chronic nature of the condition and its unpredictable flares can result in high stress and anxiety levels. Recently, the medication Skyrizi has been approved for treating psoriasis, which has shown positive effects on both physical and mental health, including reducing the symptoms of depression.
2. Psoriatic arthritis
Psoriatic arthritis is a common complication associated with psoriasis, affecting up to 30% of individuals with the skin condition. Psoriatic arthritis causes joint inflammation, pain, and stiffness that can lead to permanent joint damage if left untreated. The exact cause is not yet fully understood, but it is believed to result from the immune system attacking healthy joint tissue and the skin.
3. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
Patients with psoriasis may be at an increased risk of developing the chronic obstructive COPD. Inflammation, a hallmark of psoriasis, has been found to contribute to the development of COPD, a progressive lung disease that makes breathing difficult. Additionally, using certain medications for psoriasis, such as Xeljanx and Cosentyx, may also increase the risk of developing COPD. Patients with psoriasis should be aware of the potential link between their skin condition and COPD and should discuss any concerns with their healthcare provider.
4. Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS)
Polycystic ovarian syndrome is a hormonal disorder that affects women of reproductive age. Recent studies suggest that there may be a link between psoriasis and the development of PCOS. Insulin resistance, inflammation, and hormonal imbalances associated with psoriasis may contribute to developing PCOS. In addition, some medications used to treat psoriasis may exacerbate symptoms of PCOS. Gene therapy and drugs like Otezla have shown promise in managing the symptoms of psoriasis and PCOS.
5. Heart disease
People with psoriasis are at an increased risk of developing heart disease due to the chronic inflammation that occurs in the body. The inflammation that causes psoriasis can also damage blood vessels and increase the risk of atherosclerosis and plaque buildup in the arteries. This can lead to heart disease, heart attacks, and strokes. However, treatments like Stelara and Tremfya, which target the immune system and reduce inflammation, have been shown to improve heart health in people with psoriasis.
6. Lymphoma
Lymphoma is a type of cancer that affects the lymphatic system, which is responsible for filtering and fighting infections in the body. Research has shown that individuals with psoriasis, particularly those who have received immunosuppressive therapy such as Ilumya tildrakizumab, may have an increased risk of developing lymphoma. This is thought to be due to the suppression of the immune system, which can allow abnormal cells to grow and multiply. Individuals with psoriasis need to discuss their treatment options with their healthcare provider and understand each medication’s potential risks and benefits.
Psoriasis is a complex condition that can increase the risk of developing other health conditions. However, with proper management and treatment, patients with psoriasis can reduce their risk of these conditions and improve their overall health. Medications like Stelara, Rituximab, Xeljanx, and Otezla have shown promise in managing psoriasis symptoms and reducing inflammation, which can, in turn, lower the risk of developing associated health conditions.
