Heart Problems May Be Avoided By Treating Psoriasis in Patients

Psoriasis and Complications

Roughly 7.5 million men and women in the US have psoriasis, and the effect of this disease goes way past its visible results on the skin.  According to board-certified dermatologist Jashin J. Wu, MD, FAAD, director of dermatology research at the Kaiser Permanente Los Angeles Medical Center, People with psoriasis, particularly those with more severe disease, have an increased risk for a variety of other health problems, including obesity, diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, stroke and heart attack. Psoriasis patients, even those with mild disease, need to be aware of how this condition affects their overall health.

Psoriasis is a persistent inflammatory disease characterised by reddish and raised patches of skin, or plaques, filled with silvery-white scales. In line with Dr. Wu's observations, the inflammatory effects of this skin disease can affect the whole body, which can lead to cardiovascular problems.

Treating psoriasis may lead to resolution of cardiovascular symptoms by reducing skin infection, which in turn results to less inflammation within the body, Dr. Wu says. Treatment choices for moderate to severe psoriasis include phototherapy, medicines such as acitretin, cyclosporine and methotrexate, and biologicals, which stop inflammation.

Psoriasis and The Heart

Research done recently has indicated that biological medications may bring about cardiovascular symptom relief in some psoriasis sufferers, Dr. Wu says, but the rationale for this stays doubtful. He says that more research is required to determine whether or not an instantaneous connection exists between biological treatment and the relief of cardiovascular symptoms, and to assess how biologicals are different from other psoriasis treatments in decreasing cardiovascular illnesses. Meanwhile, he advises all psoriasis patients to seek cure, keep a healthy weight and speak to their doctor about screening for cardiovascular diseases.

According to him, Psoriasis is a serious medical condition that can have a detrimental effect on your overall health. If you have this disease, talk to a board-certified dermatologist to determine the best treatment option for you. Managing your psoriasis is not just about improving your skin — it’s about caring for your entire well-being.

If you want to know more on how to take care of your health the best way possible, feel free to read our other articles on this site.

Reference: Science Daily

Written By: Dr. Marie Gabrielle Laguna Bedia