Can Psoriasis Cause Other Health Problems

Causes And Risk Factors

While it isnt entirely clear exactly what causes the immune system to malfunction in people with psoriasis, researchers have discovered genes that are linked to the development of the condition, and it is believed that environmental factors also play a role.18 There are a number of key factors which contribute to the onset and exacerbation of psoriasis, including:19

Top Psoriasis Support Groups And Nonprofits

• The National Psoriasis Foundation. This non-profit has dedicated itself to the 8 million Americans living with psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis for more than five decades. And when we say dedicated, we mean dedicated. It hosts a robust online community, offers one-on-one counseling, and puts its money where its mouth isthe foundation has invested $19 million dollars in clinical research to help find a cure for psoriatic disease.

• . Consider this group of more than 19,000 psoriasis warriors your sounding board: there to support anyone looking for answers to life with psoriasis.

How Do Foods Cause Inflammation

Studies are ongoing about how certain foods trigger an inflammatory response. Research suggests that some foods, especially highly processed ones, put your bodys defense mechanisms into overdrive.

For example, fatty foods can increase inflammation in adipose tissue , which is throughout your body. Ongoing fat tissue inflammation greatly increases your risk of psoriasis. It also increases your risk of type 2 diabetes, heart disease and other chronic health conditions.

Recommended Reading: What Causes Eczema And Psoriasis

What Else Should I Know

Making healthy choices can help with psoriasis. Here are some things you can do:

• If you smoke, quit. Smoking can trigger outbreaks of psoriasis in some people.
• Avoid alcohol. It can make psoriasis treatments less effective.
• Eat healthy foods. Eating a lot of fruits and vegetables can help fend off diseases that might trigger psoriasis.
• Stay at a healthy weight. This decreases the risk of inverse psoriasis.
• Keep skin clean and well moisturized. Bathing daily with bath salts or oils and then applying moisturizer can help ease the symptoms of psoriasis.

People who have psoriasis may feel self-conscious about how it looks. That’s one reason why some people turn to a therapist or join a support group of people who understand what they might be going through.

The key to psoriasis treatment is keeping up on whatever your doctor prescribes. If that means applying an ointment twice a day, then find a way to remind yourself to do it so you don’t forget. Psoriasis is one of those things that you need to stay focused on treating, even when you’re feeling OK.

Whether your psoriasis is mild or severe, learn all you can about it. Talk to your doctor or check websites like:

Obesity Metabolic Syndrome And Diabetes

Obesity is the most common comorbid condition in people with both psoriasis and PsA, says Dr. Ogdie. It sets the stage for insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes.

Insulin resistance means the body is less able to move glucose, a type of sugar your body uses for energy, from the blood into cells. Glucose builds up in the blood and begins the processes that cause type 2 diabetes, another risk factor for heart disease and stroke.

âIn addition, in people with psoriatic disease, obesity is linked to not responding well to treatment and to worse quality of life and function,â Dr. Ogdie says. âIn people with psoriasis, itâs the single greatest risk factor for development of psoriatic arthritis. For those with psoriatic arthritis, obesity creates an extra burden for joints already affected by disease.â

The relationship among inflammation, obesity and related comorbid conditions is complicated, says Dr. Mehta.

âWe think inflammation from the overactive immune system is getting into the adipose, or fat, tissue,â he says. âOur bodies have insulin receptors on adipose tissue, and when you have more fat, youâre more likely to become insulin resistant â and thatâs prediabetes.â

Don’t Miss: How To Stop Itching Scalp Psoriasis

How Can You Measure Inflammation In The Body

While certain foods are known to cause inflammation, not everyone reacts the same way to these foods. Ive had some patients who felt that wheat was making their psoriasis worse. Another patient noticed more flare-ups when she ate nuts, says Wesdock.

Some tests can measure inflammation with biomarkers, which are substances in your blood that spike when your body reacts a certain way to foods such as fats or sugar. For example, a simple test can check for increased levels of C-reactive protein in your blood. The liver makes extra CRP if theres inflammation in your body. Doctors might use this test to determine how likely you are to develop a chronic condition like heart disease.

As you adjust your diet to ease psoriasis symptoms, be sure to work with your psoriasis doctor to monitor symptoms and inflammation levels.

Health Conditions Linked To Psoriasis

It is important to visit your primary care provider regularly to screen for these diseases because you may not notice or feel symptoms for some of these health conditions. In addition, if some of these conditions are caught early, they can be easily treated with lifestyle changes or medications.

Evidence shows that people who treat their psoriasis effectively can also lower the risk of other comorbidities.

In 2019, the National Psoriasis Foundation and the American Academy of Dermatology published guidelines on the treatment of psoriasis with attention to comorbidities. The guidelines state the following health conditions as comorbidities of psoriasis.

You May Like: Is Psoriatic Arthritis Related To Psoriasis

Psoriasis Diet: Foods To Eat And Avoid If You Have Psoriasis

A range of treatments are available for psoriasis, from skin ointments to drugs that alter your immune system. But can easing the symptoms of this common condition be as simple as changing the foods we eat?

For the more than 8 million people in the U.S. who live with psoriasis, diet may play a bigger role than we think in how our bodies handle inflammation. , a registered dietitian at Johns Hopkins Medicine, offers insight on which foods to eat and which to avoid if you have psoriasis.

Are There Any Other Skin Conditions That May Impact Male Fertility

According to Dr. Joshi, a range of organ problems, including skin ailments, might impair male fertility.

• Cryptorchidism and hypogonadism are two genodermatoses that affect the skin and other organs, including the male reproductive system.
• Dyschromias, such as deSanctis-Cacchione, poikiloderma congenital, LEOPARD, and H syndrome
• Ichthyosis, such as Rud and trichothiodystrophy and a group of unrelated genodermatoses, such as ablepharon macrostomia, Coffin-Siris, Gorlin-Goltz, and Werner syndrome, are the most prevalent.
• Male fertility can be harmed by acquired skin disorders such as orchitis, epididymal blockage, or androgen antagonists.
• Among these include infections , autoimmune illnesses , granulomatous diseases , zinc deficiency, and cancer.
• Several skin disease treatments, most notably cytotoxic medicines , irradiation, and antiandrogens, are known to have negative effects on male fertility .

You May Like: Home Remedies For Psoriasis Of The Skin

The Heartbreak Of Psoriasis May Affect Your Joints Heart And Mind

• By , Executive Editor, Harvard Heart Letter

Raised, red patches covered with silvery scales on the elbows and knees are the classic sign of plaque psoriasis. Its the most common form of this skin disease, named after an ancient Greek word meaning an itchy or scaly condition. But psoriasis can sometimes take different, more serious forms, and has been linked to other physical and mental health problems.

According to a report in the July issue of the American Journal of Preventive Medicine, psoriasis is a large public health problem, affecting nearly 7 million adults in the United States. The report, based on a survey of 10,676 adults, found that non-Hispanic whites are much more likely to have psoriasis than other racial or ethnic groups. People who were older, obese, and former smokers were also more likely to have had a psoriasis diagnosis.

Most people82%said they had little or only a mild form of psoriasis, meaning that 2% or less of their body surface was affected. About 18% reported moderate to severe disease, defined as covering 3% or more of your body surface. But in some severe cases, as much as half of a persons body surface can be involved. And nearly a third of people with psoriasis develop psoriatic arthritis, which causes stiff, painful joints and other debilitating symptoms.

What Are The Psychological Effects Of Psoriasis

Psoriasis is associated with a variety of psychosocial symptoms, including:

• Feelings of guilt, shame, embarrassment or helplessness
• Poor self-esteem and low self-worth, sometimes leading to social isolation
• Sexual dysfunction, due to self-consciousness or painful lesions
• Suicidal ideation, which occurs in up to 10% of patients with psoriasis
• Interference with activities of daily living, including dressing, bathing and sleeping
• A negative impact on the patients family functioning, including financial hardship, caregiver burnout and degeneration of patientfamily relationships
• Stress which can trigger flares of psoriasis in 4368% of patients
• Depression, due to a decreased quality of life.

Read Also: Why Are Psoriasis Drugs So Expensive

Complications And Other Conditions Linked To Psoriasis

These problems can happen along with or because of psoriasis:

Psoriatic arthritis. This is the most common condition that happens along with psoriasis. About 30% of people with psoriasis also have psoriatic arthritis. It causes pain, stiffness, and swelling, and it may cause deformed joints. If you have psoriasis plus psoriatic arthritis, you will take medicines to treat both conditions together.

Eye problems. Inflammation from psoriasis can affect many parts of your eyes. Eye conditions that are linked to psoriasis include:

• Conjunctivitis : Inflammation of the clear membrane lining your eyelid and the white part of your eye
• Blepharitis: Swelling of the eyelid

• Inflammation in your intestines when you eat gluten, called celiac disease

Kidney disease. Psoriasis, especially when itâs severe, has connections with a higher risk for chronic kidney disease. Both the inflammation itself and some of the medicines you take to treat psoriasis can damage the kidneys and its blood vessels.

Sleep problems. Psoriasis can make it hard to sleep well. Not only can the pain and itch keep you awake, but you’re more likely to have sleep disorders like obstructive sleep apnea or restless legs syndrome.

Infections. Psoriasis increases your risk for infections. So do some of the medications you take to treat it. Your medications work by lowering your immune system response, which can make it easier for germs to get into your body and cause trouble.

Show Sources

Is Celiac Disease Associated With Psoriasis

Studies are mixed, but some have suggested that celiac disease, another autoimmune disease affecting the gut, occurs more frequently in people with psoriasis. While not categorized under the IBD umbrella, celiac disease is caused by a severe sensitivity to gluten, resulting in intestinal inflammation. Celiac disease can interfere with digestion, leading to bloating and diarrhea. But it can also cause other symptoms, such as fatigue, anemia, and joint pain.

Don’t Miss: Is Head And Shoulders Good For Psoriasis

Problems With The Immune System

Your immune system is your body’s defence against disease and it helps fight infection. One of the main types of cell used by the immune system is called a T-cell.

T-cells normally travel through the body to detect and fight invading germs, such as bacteria. But in people with psoriasis, they start to attack healthy skin cells by mistake.

This causes the deepest layer of skin to produce new skin cells more quickly than usual, triggering the immune system to produce more T-cells.

It’s not known what exactly causes this problem with the immune system, although certain genes and environmental triggers may play a role.

Can Untreated Psoriasis Cause Other Health Problems

Psoriasis is a skin condition that causes itching and suffering. If left untreated this might further lead to cardiovascular disease, psoriatic arthritis, and type 2 diabetes are all illnesses that can be caused by it.Inflammatory bowel illness, renal disease, anxiety, and depression are all symptoms of depression People with psoriasis are also more likely to acquire a long-term condition, known as comorbidities.

In a nutshell, having psoriasis doesnt mean that you have a skin problem but take into account the potential health issues that may arise afterwards. Thus, you must seek proper treatment of psoriasis before it impacts your fertility. Consult an experienced fertility specialist for diagnosis and treatment.

Image credits- freepik

Don’t Miss: Does Lemon Juice Help Psoriasis

Can Psoriasis Cause Infertility In Men

According to findings, Untreated psoriasis may affect male fertility. The systemic inflammation might have an impact on the hormonal profile leading to inflammation in the sexual accessory glands. Here are some doctor-verified tips for men with psoriasis to reduce fertility-related complications:

• Avoid drug and tobacco use if you have psoriasis. Not only these aggravate psoriasis condition but also impact fertility.
• Limit alcohol consumption as alcohol abuse can also lead to male infertility
• High temperatures, such as those seen in hot tubs and baths, can temporarily impair sperm production and motility. So, avoid taking hot water bath or showers to prevent psoriasis flare ups and its effect on fertility.
• Chemicals that can affect sperm production such as those found in the workplace or in the environment, should be avoided.

Who Gets The Psychological Effects Of Psoriasis

Most people with psoriasis report that it affects their quality of life to some extent. Patients with disfiguring scaling and redness on the face, neck and other readily visible portions of the body are particularly affected by the skin disorder, particularly if the onset of psoriasis is during childhood and adolescence.

It has been estimated that the psychological impact of their skin disorder is severe in 1062% of patients with psoriasis.

Also Check: How Often To Shower With Psoriasis

What Else Should I Ask My Healthcare Provider

If you have psoriasis, ask your healthcare provider:

• How can I prevent outbreaks and control symptoms?
• What medication will work best for me?
• What else should I do to improve symptoms?
• What are my options if creams dont work?
• Will psoriasis ever go away?

A note from Cleveland Clinic

Psoriasis, an itchy skin condition, can come and go throughout your life. Its related to an overactive immune response and is not contagious. If you have skin changes that arent going away, talk to your healthcare provider. There is no cure for psoriasis, but psoriasis treatments can improve symptoms. Your provider may prescribe a special cream or moisturizer or medications. Other therapies are available if creams or medicines dont work. Maintaining your overall health will also help improve symptoms.

Last reviewed by a Cleveland Clinic medical professional on 10/17/2020.

References

Psoriasis And Male Fertility: What Is The Link Risks And Complications

If you have psoriasis, you must get it treated because untreated condition may cause infertility. Read more in the article.

Psoriasis is a chronic skin condition that causes red, scaly, itchy and flaky skin. Over 10 million people suffer from this immune disorder every year and if you have psoriasis, you must seek treatment or else it can hamper your health in many ways. A lot of men do not know that untreated psoriasis can hamper their fertility. Yes, psoriasis may cause infertility if it not treated on time. Onlymyhealth spoke to Dr. Prashant. S. Joshi, Consultant – Reproductive Medicine & Medical Director, Milann Fertility Hospital, Indiranagar, Bangalore to understand the link between psoriasis and male infertility. Scroll down to read more information.

Recommended Reading: What Foods Help With Psoriasis

Psoriasis And Stress Can Be A Vicious Cycle

Psoriasis is a chronic and often lifelong disease that can have a profound impact on a patient’s physical and emotional well-being, says Lindsay C. Strowd, MD, an assistant professor of dermatology at Wake Forest School of Medicine in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. Many studies have looked at the impact on a patient’s quality of life with regard to psoriasis, says Dr. Strowd. It can negatively affect patients more so than other chronic illnesses such as asthma and diabetes. Part of this may relate to the stigma associated with skin disease.

Strowd says patients should ask their physicians for tips on how to deal with the negative effect the disease has on their life. Psoriasis causes stress, and stress can flare psoriasis, so this is a critical aspect of disease management, she explains. The good news for patients is there are many resources to help cope with psoriasis, including social media platforms and support groups through the National Psoriasis Foundation and the American Academy of Dermatology.

Questions To Ask Your Doctor

• How long does treatment last?
• Will I have to be on medicine for the rest of my life?
• Should I make any changes to my skin care routine?
• Are there any skin products or foods that I should avoid?
• If symptoms get worse, when should I call the doctor?
• If I have psoriasis, will my children get it?
• Is there a support group that you recommend?

Read Also: Can You Get Psoriasis In Your Genital Area

Are There Complications Of Psoriasis

In some people, psoriasis causes more than itchiness and red skin. It can lead to swollen joints and arthritis. If you have psoriasis, you may be at higher risk of:

• Use medicated shampoo for scales on your scalp.

Other steps you should take to stay as healthy as possible:

• Talk to your healthcare provider about lowering your risk for related conditions, such as heart disease, depression and diabetes.
• Lower your stress with meditation, exercise or seeing a mental health professional.

What Are The Symptoms Of Psoriasis

The following are the most common symptoms of psoriasis. Psoriasis comes in several forms and severities. Symptoms may include:

• Plaque psoriasis. This type of psoriasis is the most common. Symptoms may include patches of red, raised skin on the trunk, arms, legs, knees, elbows, genitals, and scalp. Nails may also thicken, become pitted, and separate from the nail beds.

• Guttate psoriasis. This type of psoriasis affects mostly children. Symptoms may include many small spots of red, raised skin. A sore throat usually proceeds the onset of this type of psoriasis.

• Pustular psoriasis. Symptoms may include small pustules all over the body or just on the palms, soles, and other small areas.

The symptoms of psoriasis may look like other skin conditions. Always talk with your healthcare provider for a diagnosis.

Read Also: What Is The Life Expectancy Of Someone With Psoriasis