Psoriasis And Complications From Live Vaccines
Despite lots of research, there is no evidence that any vaccine makes psoriasis worse. The reason you want to avoid live vaccines though is that they may be too strong for your bodys defense system, or your immune system, to handle.
This is especially true if you are taking medications that blunt your immune system like steroids or biologics. If your immune system is suppressed, you may actually get symptoms of the disease you are trying to prevent.
To prevent psoriasis vaccine complications while on treatment, your doctor may give you a series of vaccinations before you start a biological drug. This could include vaccinations for diseases like the flu, pneumonia, and hepatitis.
The most common live virus vaccine is the one for the childhood diseases mumps, measles, and rubella, called MMR. Fortunately, most people with psoriasis are adults so they dont have to worry, said Dr. Moore.
A common live virus you should talk to your doctor about is the vaccination for herpes zoster, or shingles. Although this vaccine should be used with caution in psoriasis, some recent research suggests it can still be worth taking. A 2011 study published in the journal Arthritis Research and Therapy found that the live virus for shingles can be safe, even for people taking biologic drugs.
Symptoms And Warning Signs
If you’re concerned that you have alcoholic liver disease, see a medical professional as soon as possible. Which symptoms you have and how severe they are, depends on a variety of factors, including pre-existing conditions and the progression of the disease.
In the early stages of alcoholic liver disease, you may not have any symptoms at all. Additionally, symptoms seem to worsen after a period of heavy drinking. The three main categories of symptoms are:
- Digestive problems: Including abdominal swelling, dry mouth, and bleeding from enlarged esophageal veins
- Dermatological issues: Including yellowing of the skin, red spider-like veins, and redness on your feet
- Brain and nervous system abnormalities: Including memory problems, numbness in extremities, and fainting
What To Think About
Some medicines used to treat psoriasis can cause serious side effects. You and your doctor will discuss how long to use treatments that could cause harm. You will also need to see your doctor regularly and may have blood tests while using some medicines.
Many oral or injected medicines used to treat psoriasis aren’t safe during pregnancy. If you are pregnant, talk to your doctor before taking any medicines.
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Does Having Psoriasis Raise The Risk Of Other Diseases As You Age
While psoriasis affects the skin, we now know that its actually a systemic disease. In psoriasis, inflammation exists throughout the body, but its only externally visible in the skin.
Especially in more severe cases, psoriasis is associated with metabolic syndrome, arthritis, and depression. Metabolic syndrome includes insulin resistance and diabetes, high cholesterol, and obesity. It increases your risk of heart disease and stroke.
The same type of inflammation that affects the skin may affect the joints, leading to psoriatic arthritis. It can even affect the brain, leading to symptoms of depression.
Are Cosmetic Procedures Safe To Get
Noninvasive cosmetic procedures are more popular now than ever. Injectables like Botox can improve the appearance of wrinkles, while fillers restore lost volume. Lasers can be used to even skin tone and texture, and even eliminate unwanted blood vessels or hair. These procedures are safe for people with psoriasis.
If youre interested in a cosmetic procedure, speak to your doctor about whether its right for you. In some cases, your doctor may want to hold or adjust your medications. Its important that theyre aware of your full medical history and current medications.
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Psoriasis And Smallpox Vaccine Cautions
You may have heard concerns about psoriasis flares and smallpox vaccine. According to the National Psoriasis Foundation, smallpox vaccine is not recommended because smallpox — not psoriasis — can be passed from person to person through an open wound, which could occur if you have active psoriasis.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention states that people with psoriasis should not get this vaccine unless they have been exposed to smallpox. Fortunately, your chances of being exposed are very small because smallpox has been eradicated all around the world by the vaccine. It no longer exists as a naturally occurring disease.
The vaccine may still be used for some people who are at risk for being exposed to smallpox as a weapon of bioterrorism. In 2002, the U.S. Department of Defense started a smallpox vaccination program for some selected military personnel and government workers who might be exposed to that threat.
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Another side effect of psoriasis that Summer wasnt quite prepared for: how self-conscious shed become. People are not educated about psoriasis, so when theyd see my hands theyd be hesitant because they think its contagious, she says. I got to a point where I didnt leave my house for eight months except for when I had my doctors appointments. That depression hit me hard.
Eventually, Summer asked herself, What do I want my daughter to see me doing? That got her back out of the house, and though she still struggles with her symptoms, she no longer allows herself to wallow in self-pity.
Ive learned that I am much more resilient and tough than I ever imagined I could be, she says. With chronic illnesses, you have to be.
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What Causes Psoriasis Outbreaks
Psoriasis outbreaks differ from person to person. No one knows exactly what causes flare-ups. Common psoriasis triggers may include:
- Skin injury .
- Streptococcal or other infection that affects the immune system.
- Certain prescription medications .
- Cold weather, when people have less exposure to sunlight and humidity and more to hot, dry indoor air.
Causes And Risk Factors Of Psoriasis
Psoriasis, in general, is a genetic condition passed down through families. “It’s likely that multiple genes need to be affected to allow psoriasis to occur and that it’s frequently triggered by an external event, such as an infection,” says James W. Swan, MD, professor of dermatology at the Loyola University Stritch School of Medicine in Maywood, Illinois.
Certain risk factors, such as a family history or being obese, may increase your odds of developing psoriasis.
According to the National Psoriasis Foundation , at least 10 percent of people inherit genes that could lead to psoriasis, but only 3 percent or less actually develop the disease. For this reason, it is believed that the disease is caused by a combination of genetics and external factors or triggers.
A psoriasis outbreak may be provoked by:
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How To Treat Scalp Psoriasis
While scalp psoriasis is a chronic condition, you can help ease uncomfortable symptoms with the right plan. Its important to see a dermatologist as soon as you suspect you may have the condition, though, as scalp psoriasis treatment is highly individualized and requires some persistence.
It depends on things like hair type, what treatments people have tried in the past, whether people have open sores, their stress level, even how long their hair is, Dr. Bhutani says. Please see your dermatologist. Even if what youre dealing with turns out to be just really bad dandruff, you shouldnt have to live with it.
The most common scalp psoriasis treatments include11:
I usually recommend treating scalp psoriasis from the outside first, Dr. Bhutani says, explaining that she often prescribes topical corticosteroids first. Although topical treatments are very effective for short-term management of scalp psoriasis flare-ups, if the symptoms are severe or if the plaques spread to other areas of the body, additional treatment may be needed.
Side Effects And Risks
Skyrizi and Humira have some similar side effects and others that vary. Below are examples of these side effects.
Mild side effects
These lists contain up to 10 of the most common mild side effects that can occur with Skyrizi, with Humira or with both drugs .
- Can occur with Skyrizi:
The researchers found that after 16 weeks:
- 72% of people taking Skyrizi had a 90% improvement in their plaque psoriasis symptoms
- 47% of people taking Humira had a 90% improvement in their plaque psoriasis symptoms
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Healthy Eating And Exercise
People with psoriasis have a slightly higher risk of developing diabetes and cardiovascular disease than the general population, although it’s not known why.
Regular exercise and a healthy diet are recommended for everyone, not just people with psoriasis, because they can help to prevent many health problems. Eating a healthy, balanced diet and exercising regularly can also relieve stress, which may improve your psoriasis.
How Will Menopause Affect My Ability To Manage My Psoriasis How Should I Prepare
During menopause, hormone levels shift, resulting in lower levels of estrogen. We know that low estrogen levels in postmenopausal women is associated with dry skin, decreased collagen production with thinning of the skin, and loss of elasticity.
Theres no definitive data that menopause has a direct effect on psoriasis. But limited data suggests low estrogen levels may be associated with worsening of psoriasis.
Psoriasis may be harder to treat in people with weakened skin, so its important to do what you can to keep your skin healthy before menopause begins. Wearing sunscreen and practicing sun-protective behavior are the absolute most important things you can do to protect your skin when you are young.
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What Does This Study Add
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This is one of the first studies to evaluate cause-specific mortality in patients with psoriasis using broadly representative population-based methods.
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To our knowledge, an increased risk of death associated with infection, kidney disease, and dementia has not been previously reported in patients with severe psoriasis.
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The excess risk of death in patients with psoriasis is highest for cardiovascular disease followed by infection and cancer.
Is There A Test For Psoriasis
To see if you have psoriasis, your doctor usually examines your skin, scalp, and nails for signs of the condition. They may also ask questions about your health and history.
This information can help the doctor figure out if you have psoriasis, and, if so, identify which type. To rule out other skin conditions that look like psoriasis, your doctor may take a small skin sample to look at under a microscope.
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What To Do In Case Of Overdose
If you think youve taken too much of this drug, call your doctor. You can also call the American Association of Poison Control Centers at 800-222-1222 or use their online tool. But if your symptoms are severe, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room right away.
When you get Skyrizi from the pharmacy, the pharmacist will add an expiration date to the label on the package. This date is typically 1 year from the date they dispensed the medication.
The expiration date helps guarantee that the medication is effective during this time. The of the Food and Drug Administration is to avoid using expired medications. If you have unused medication that has gone past the expiration date, talk to your pharmacist about whether you might still be able to use it.
Diabetes And Metabolic Syndrome
If you have psoriasis, you are 30% more likely to develop than someone without the disease. Symptoms to watch for include increased , hunger and urination. You are also more likely to have metabolic syndrome. is a combination of conditions that include , obesity, and insulin resistance. It is a risk factor for developing type 2 diabetes. Lifestyle changes can help manage both conditions. Recent research suggests certain drugs for type 2 can help improve psoriasis.
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What If I Miss A Dose
Its important to keep your appointments with your doctor for Skyrizi injections. If you miss an appointment, call your doctors office right away to reschedule.
If youre using Skyrizi at home and forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember and then talk with your doctor. They can help you adjust your schedule for your Skyrizi treatment.
To help make sure you dont miss a dose, try setting a reminder in your phone.
Psoriasis And Life Expectancy
Most people think of as a skin diseasea disorder causing chronic inflammation and red, scaly patches on the skin. But psoriasis is more than skin deep. It can lead to complications affecting organs and systems other than the skin. Unfortunately, more severe psoriasis and complications from the disease are linked to an increased risk of death.Information about psoriasis life expectancy is not meant to alarm, but rather to underscore the importance of a better understanding of the disease process and ever more effective treatments.
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How Is Psoriasis Diagnosed
There arent any special tests to help doctors diagnose psoriasis. Typically, a dermatologist will examine your skin and ask about your family history.
Youll likely be given a diagnosis based on this physical exam.
In some situations, doctors will remove a small sample of the skin and examine it under a microscope. This might allow them to get a better look at the affected area and make a more accurate diagnosis.
What Are The Symptoms Of Psoriasis
Symptoms of psoriasis can be different for each person, but some common ones are:
- Patches of thick, red skin with silvery-white scales that itch or burn.
- Dry, cracked skin that itches or bleeds.
- Thick, ridged, pitted nails.
The symptoms of psoriasis tend to come and go. You may find that there are times when your symptoms get worse, called flares, followed by times when you feel better .
Some patients have a related condition called psoriatic arthritis, in which you have stiff, swollen, painful joints. If you have symptoms of psoriatic arthritis, be sure to tell your doctor as soon as you can.
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Does Aging Skin Affect Psoriasis
As the skin ages, collagen and elastic fibers weaken and the skin gets thinner. This makes it sensitive to trauma, leading to easier bruising and even open sores in severe cases.
This is a challenge for anyone, but it can be even more challenging if you have psoriasis. Psoriasis plaques that occur on weakened skin can lead to pain and bleeding.
If you have psoriasis, its important to protect yourself from the sun because UV exposure is known to cause skin damage. You also must be careful when using topical steroid creams to treat psoriasis. Overuse of steroids is associated with skin thinning and development of stretch marks, especially with long-term use over years.
Treatment For Alcoholic Liver Disease
If you haven’t reached the cirrhosis stage yet, the liver damage may heal if you stop drinking alcohol. Those who are alcohol dependent may require professional treatment to break their addiction.
If you have cirrhosis, your healthcare provider will discuss how to manage your specific complications. Some patients at this late stage will require a liver transplant.
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How Long Can I Live With Alcoholic Liver Disease
Robert Burakoff, MD, MPH, is board-certified in gastroentrology. He is the vice chair for ambulatory services for the department of medicine at Weill Cornell Medical College in New York, where he is also a professor. He was the founding editor and co-editor in chief of Inflammatory Bowel Diseases.
A diagnosis of alcoholic liver disease may leave you wondering how long you have to live. The reality is that it’s different for every person and it’s something that is best discussed with your healthcare provider. Protocols are used to give an individual prognosis based on your physical condition, test results, and severity of symptoms.
Drug Forms And Administration
Skyrizi comes as a prefilled syringe. Its given as a subcutaneous injection .
Humira comes in three forms: a single-dose pen, a single-dose prefilled syringe, and a single-dose vial of liquid solution. Like Skyrizi, Humira is given as a subcutaneous injection.
Both Skyrizi and Humira can be given at your doctors office. Your doctor can also teach you how to give yourself injections at home if youd like to start doing it yourself.
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I Cover Myself In Saran Wrap Before Bed
Joni Kazantzis
Joni Kazantzis, 34, has had psoriasis for almost 20 years. After going to the doctor for what she thought were hives, she was diagnosed with the chronic skin condition at the young age of 15.
She was too young for steroids and biologics were too new at the time, so Joni started applying topical ointments to help get her symptoms under control. It became clear that they werent working, though, so instead she went to the dermatologist three times per week for 30-second light therapy treatments in what looked like a stand-up tanning booth.
My spots faded and became less itchy, she says of the treatment. After six months, they completely cleared up.
When Joni started college, her skin stayed clear for the first two years without therapy treatments. But her symptoms reappeared during her junior year, and she used a topical steroid ointment to fight the flare in between classes, a job, and a position on the kick-line team.
Focus On Your Positive Qualities
Your skin is just one aspect of who you are. It doesnt define you as a person.
When you start to feel frustrated or embarrassed about psoriasis symptoms, remind yourself of the many positive qualities you have that other people appreciate.
For example, maybe your loved ones admire your loyalty, your intelligence, and your sense of humor.
Instead of dwelling on negative feelings about psoriasis, try to focus on the things you like about yourself. This may help you accept that your friends and family members care more about those traits, too.
You might be tempted to avoid your mirror during a flare up, but taking time to look at your skin without judgment may start to normalize your condition.
This may help you feel more comfortable with your body.
When you learn to accept that flare-ups are a regular part of life, you may begin to see psoriasis as a small part of a much bigger picture. Your skin doesnt change your other physical attributes, such as your eyes, your smile, or your personal sense of style.
Youre likely your own harshest critic when it comes to your appearance.
If you can learn to love your body, others can too.
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