Metabolic syndrome is a condition characterized by high blood pressure, increased waist circumference, high blood sugar levels due to insulin resistance, and high levels of blood fats. Combined, these factors increase the risk of coronary heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and other serious health problems.
According to one review, an estimated 20 to 50 percent of people with psoriasis are affected by metabolic syndrome, and the risk of having this health problem increases with the severity of psoriasis.
It is unclear whether psoriasis predisposes people to metabolic syndrome or vice versa. But experts emphasize that it is especially important for people with psoriasis to do everything they can to reduce the risk of metabolic syndrome, including maintaining a healthy weight, eating a varied diet low in saturated fat, and getting plenty of exercise.
4. Heart disease
There is strong evidence linking severe psoriasis with an increased risk of heart disease.That risk can increase even further if you have additional common risk factors, such as high blood pressure, high low-density lipoprotein (LDL, or “bad”) cholesterol, and obesity. So if you have psoriasis, you should consider a cardiovascular disease prevention strategy as part of your psoriasis treatment and management.
“Chronic inflammation has long been associated with an increased risk of heart attack and stroke,” says Kevin Campbell, MDHealthFirst cardiologist in Melbourne, Florida. This is because inflammation can damage the arteries.
If you have psoriasis, it’s important to monitor your heart health and take steps to reduce your risk of heart disease. “I want to say that the first-line treatment for psoriasis is diet and lifestyle,” says Dr. Treloar.
5. Sleep disorders
One review found that sleep disorders, which can have a significant impact on physical and psychological health, are common in people with psoriasis. Researchers noted that sleep apnea is common among people with psoriasis and is estimated to affect between 36 and 82 percent. They also found that people who suffer from psoriasis have a higher risk of suffering from insomnia and restless legs syndrome.
And the relationship goes both ways, according to the review: Sleep disorders increase the risk of developing diabetes, cardiovascular disease, high blood pressure, depression and anxiety, all comorbidities of psoriasis.
Researchers highlight the importance of evaluating and addressing sleep problems if you have psoriasis, because early detection and treatment can greatly impact quality of life. For example, the review notes, research has shown that treating sleep apnea with continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) leads to an improvement in psoriasis lesions and a reduction in inflammation.
6. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
The inflammation associated with psoriasis can affect the lungs and increase the risk of lung diseases, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). COPD is a collective term for a group of lung conditions that block airflow and make breathing difficult.
According to a review of research, several studies have shown that COPD, asthma, and other lung conditions are common in people with psoriasis. And even people with mild cases of psoriasis have a higher risk of developing COPD.
Another study found that people with psoriasis were more likely to have COPD than those without psoriasis. The COPD rate was 9.64 percent in study participants with psoriasis and 6.94 percent in those without psoriasis. However, psoriasis did not appear to be an independent risk factor for COPD.
Lung diseases can have a negative effect on the quality of life of people with psoriasis, and COPD (as well as other comorbidities of psoriasis, such as sleep apnea and high blood pressure) can have a major impact on your overall health and life expectancy. Because of this, it is important for anyone with psoriasis to be screened for lung problems and receive treatment if necessary.
People with psoriasis should also avoid lung irritants, such as smoking and exposure to air pollution, chemical fumes, and dust, which contribute to the risk of COPD.
And doctors should test people at risk early for reduced lung function.
7. Uveitis
Uveitis is an inflammation of the eye that causes pain, redness, and blurred vision. If left untreated, it can cause vision loss. It is estimated to occur in between 7 and 20 percent of people who have psoriasis. The likelihood tends to be higher in people who have both psoriasis and PsA, but there is growing evidence that psoriasis alone, without PsA, is associated with an increased risk of uveitis.
The link between psoriasis and uveitis is not yet fully understood. More research is needed. But researchers point out that regular eye exams are crucial for people who have psoriasis, even when there are no symptoms of eye or vision problems. Early diagnosis and treatment can help decrease systemic inflammation and may help improve both psoriasis and uveitis.
8. Cancer
“Psoriasis alters the immune system in such a way that it increases overall inflammation, which may slightly increase the risk of developing cancer,” he says. Stephanie K. Fabbro, MDdermatologist at OhioHealth Riverside Methodist Hospital in Columbus.
The researchers cite “chronic low-grade inflammation” as a possible reason for the link, along with certain behaviors, such as smoking and alcohol consumption, that tend to be more common in people with psoriasis. They also note that there is a possibility that some psoriasis medications may be involved.
9. Inflammatory bowel disease
Research suggests that psoriasis is significantly associated with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).
A review of the medical literature notes that a “shared genetic background” is likely involved, but genetics is only one piece of the puzzle. Changes in the intestinal microbiota may also be involved.
According to a systematic review and meta-analysis, the rate of IBD is higher in participants with psoriasis than in those without the condition. The psoriasis rate was 3.6 percent in those with Crohn’s disease and 2.8 percent in those with ulcerative colitis. Additionally, the rate of psoriasis was 6.7 percent in those with IBD treated with anti-TNF agents and 3.1 percent in those not treated with biologics. And it appears that as the severity of psoriasis increases, so does the risk of developing IBD.
Experts recommend that people with psoriasis who have intestinal symptoms consider seeing a gastroenterologist.
The takeaway
Although there appears to be a connection between psoriasis and other chronic diseases, these complications are not inevitable.
By managing your psoriasis, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, and working closely with your healthcare team, you can reduce your risk of developing other conditions.
Emotional support and mental health care can reduce the risk of depression and anxiety in people with psoriasis, promoting a better quality of life.
Always consult a healthcare professional if you experience any new or worsening symptoms related to psoriasis. Many associated conditions, such as uveitis and COPD, require immediate attention.
