Psoriasis is a chronic, autoimmune disease that appears on the skin that causes itchiness and red patches. Due to inflammation and insulin responses, psoriasis patients may be more prone to developing heart conditions. While there is no cure for psoriasis, treatments are available, like a new medication called Otezla, which has been approved for psoriasis. Below, we will discuss six health conditions that are linked to psoriasis:

1. Psoriatic arthritis
This is a form of arthritis that affects around 30 percent of people who have psoriasis. The symptoms include pain, swelling, and stiffness in the joints. Arthritis can cause permanent joint damage if it’s not treated properly. There is no cure for psoriatic arthritis, but treatments available can help slow the progression of the disease.

2. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
COPD is a progressive lung disease that makes it hard to breathe. COPD is caused by long-term exposure to irritants like smoking and air pollution. Cigarette smoking is the most common cause of COPD, so if you have psoriasis and smoke, it’s important to quit. People with psoriasis are more likely to develop COPD, and the risk increases if you have severe psoriasis. It’s thought that the inflammation caused by psoriasis may damage the lungs and airways, making them more susceptible to COPD.

3. Lymphoma
Lymphoma is a cancer of the lymphatic system. The lymphatic system is part of the immune system, including the lymph nodes, spleen, and thymus. People with psoriasis are at an increased risk of developing this type of cancer, especially if they have severe psoriasis. The exact reason why people with psoriasis are more likely to develop this disease is unknown, but it’s thought that the inflammation caused by psoriasis may play a role.

4. Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS)
PCOS is a hormonal disorder that affects women of childbearing age. Women with PCOS have an imbalance of hormones that can lead to irregular periods, fertility problems, and other health problems. It’s thought that the inflammation caused by psoriasis may play a role in the development of PCOS because it can disrupt the normal function of the ovaries.

5. Depression
This is a common yet serious mental health condition that can cause feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and fatigue. People with psoriasis are at an increased risk of developing depression. The itchiness and pain associated with psoriasis can also lead to feelings of frustration and isolation, which can contribute to a patient being depressed.

6. Heart disease
Heart disease is a general term for various conditions affecting the heart. People with psoriasis are at an increased risk of developing heart conditions like heart attacks and strokes. Psoriasis is thought to increase the risk of heart conditions because of the inflammation it causes. The inflammation caused by psoriasis can damage the arteries and lead to plaque buildup. This can narrow the arteries and make it hard for blood to flow, which can lead to a heart attack or stroke.

If you have psoriasis, it’s important to be aware of the increased risk of developing certain health conditions. While there is no cure for psoriasis, treatments available can help manage the symptoms and slow the progression of the disease. If you are concerned about any health conditions mentioned above, talk to your doctor about ways to reduce your risk.