How Does Psoriasis Affect The Body?

October 11, 2024

The chronic autoimmune condition psoriasis usually manifests as a skin problem but affects several other body parts. About 125 million individuals worldwide face the condition which can influence not just the obvious skin lesions but also joint discomfort and bodily functions. To grasp how psoriasis affects the body, we will investigate its mechanisms and related issues.

What is Psoriasis?

As an autoimmune condition, psoriasis results from the immune system incorrectly attacking healthy cells. Skin cells become its primary target while their growth speeds up dramatically compared to usual cells. The result is a rapid buildup of cells on the surface of the skin, which leads to the hallmark symptoms of the disease: dense scaly spots on the skin labelled as plaques.

Although psoriasis primarily impacts the skin visibly, the disease can also affect vital organs and their functions. Psoriasis causes long-lasting inflammation that greatly affects health.

The Effect on the Skin

Typically, people identify psoriasis as red scaly areas that can emerge on different regions of the skin. The scalp, knees, elbows, and back are the most commonly affected areas with plaques, yet they can arise in various areas on the body like the hands, feet, and face.

Types of Skin Psoriasis:

There are several forms of psoriasis, each presenting unique symptoms:

Plaque Psoriasis (Psoriasis Vulgaris)

Around 80% of cases are represented by this common type. Thick reddish patches are covered with a white buildup of dead cells.

Guttate Psoriasis

This condition frequently emerges in young children or in early adulthood with small red marks.

Inverse Psoriasis

It invades areas of skin creases like underarms and around breasts. The surface appears smooth and is reddish.

Pustular Psoriasis

This rare version of psoriasis generates white pustules (blisters of noninfectious pus) with red skin forming a border.

Erythrodermic Psoriasis

This is the most intense version resulting in far-reaching reddening and shedding of skin over a significant area. This condition can be fatal and needs prompt medical care.

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The Impact on the Joints

An important medical issue linked to psoriasis is psoriatic arthritis which results in joint inflammation. Thirty percent of people suffering from psoriasis may end up with psoriatic arthritis that might result in chronic pain or joint deterioration without appropriate care.

This condition can unfortunately affect any joint across the body but often a focus includes the toes and fingers as well as knees and ankles. The inflammation of the disease can cause swelling throughout both rows of fingers and toes and leads to ‘dactylitis’ resembling a sausage.

If psoriatic arthritis remains without treatment, over time, it can cause joint damage and reduce one’s ability to function normally. Psoriasis connects to joint problems and illustrates how the condition affects the entire body.

Psoriasis and the Immune System

A dysfunction of the immune system triggers psoriasis by activating T-cells that are vital for self-defence. With a proper immune system, T-cells are essential for warding off infections. In psoriasis, T-cells become overactive and attack healthy skin cells, leading to inflammation and rapid skin cell replacement.

Psoriasis originates from chronic inflammation that has an impact on multiple body systems boosting the likelihood of many other illnesses. Patients experiencing psoriasis are more prone to develop metabolic syndrome or diabetes along with heart disease due to long-term inflammation.

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The Effect on the Cardiovascular System

Psoriasis triggers persistent inflammation that extends beyond the texture of the skin and can harm blood vessels, potentially increasing cardiovascular disease incidence. Research indicates that individuals wrestling with moderate to severe psoriasis face an elevated chance of experiencing heart disease along with elevated blood pressure and strokes. Psoriasis-related inflammation may cause deposits of plaque within arteries called atherosclerosis that significantly increases the likelihood of heart attacks and strokes.

Evidence suggests that psoriasis may increase chances for metabolic syndrome characterised by high blood sugar and increased body fat. The occurrence of these health issues enhances the danger of suffering from heart disease and diabetes.

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Psoriasis and Mental Health

Your mental health can suffer greatly from the presence of psoriasis. Visible skin lesions can cause major emotional hardships for people, contributing to feelings of shame and depression. A lot of those who struggle with psoriasis say they are uneasy about how they look and that can result in anxiety and isolation. In addition, the ongoing condition and the necessity for consistent treatment may provoke emotional distress and intensify symptoms of depression.

Those suffering from psoriasis frequently experience greater mental health difficulties including anxiety and depression more than others without the disorder. Research indicates that people with severe psoriasis face an elevated danger of thinking about suicide. The treatment of psoriasis must include essential mental health services.

Psoriasis and Internal Organs

Even though psoriasis is best known for its effect on the skin, it is a systemic disease that can impact multiple internal organs. The inflammation associated with psoriasis has the potential to damage organs such as the lung and liver. Those suffering from psoriasis often get non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). When fat accumulates in the liver due to this disease, it triggers inflammation and may result in liver damage. Though details are not completely clear regarding the connection to psoriasis and NAFLD, inflammation is likely involved.

Evidence suggests that psoriasis raises the likelihood of developing inflammatory bowel diseases such as Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. Inflammation in psoriasis can reach beyond the skin and joints and could influence the gut.

Psoriasis and the Nervous System

New studies reveal a link between psoriasis and the nervous system. Inflammation caused by psoriasis over time could boost the chance of developing neurodegenerative conditions including Parkinson’s. While more research is needed to determine the exact link between inflammation and nerve tissue degradation. Research indicates that over time, the effects of inflammation may cause nerve degeneration.

Psoriasis Treatment Options

Treatment options for psoriasis are natural and focus on decreasing inflammation in the skin. A common remedy is to use aloe vera to lessen the redness and itch, and salt baths with Dead Sea or Epsom salts to help lift scales and reduce itch. Changes to your diet, including less meat and more detoxifying foods and smart foods as well as probiotics and fish oil supplements, may help with symptoms. Further, turmeric (curcumin), moderate sunlight, Oregon grape, have also been said to offer relief from mild symptoms of psoriasis.

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Conclusion

Psoriasis is much more than a skin condition. As it is systemic, it touches on many parts of the body, including the skin, the joints and the internal organs and the mental health. Psoriasis can be complicated and it takes a lot to manage; not only managing the visible symptoms but the inflammation itself and the ways it affects your health. If you understand the complete picture of psoriasis, you can become an active participant in managing it and enhance your life.

Start your Psoriasis journey with confidence, using our resources that are meant to guide and encourage you. Start by downloading our FREE Psoriasis guide booklet, containing all relevant information and helpful tips. For those interested in gaining further knowledge and learning more about comprehensive approaches, enrol in our special Psoriasis course. Furthermore, you can book a free consultation from our wellness clinic to get professional help that will be aimed at meeting your needs. Do not let Psoriasis be a hindrance – begin your path to improved skin health right away!

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