Treating Psoriasis May Help Improve Related Cardiovascular Symptoms

Reducing skin inflammation, which in turn leads to less inflammation elsewhere in the body can be one possible link between psoriasis and heart disease.

The impact of psoriasis goes far beyond its visible effects on the skin. Psoriasis patients, even those with mild disease, need to be aware of how this condition affects their overall health.

"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," says board-certified dermatologist Jashin J. Wu, MD, FAAD, director of dermatology research at the Kaiser Permanente Los Angeles Medical Center.

Psoriasis About
Psoriasis is a recurrent and complex inflammatory skin disorder that can have tremendous physical and psychological impact on the sufferer

‘Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory disease characterized in most patients by red, raised patches of skin, or plaques, covered with silvery-white scales.’

According to Dr. Wu, the inflammatory effects of this skin disease can impact the entire body, which may lead to cardiovascular problems.

Treating psoriasis may help improve cardiovascular symptoms by reducing skin inflammation, which in turn leads to less inflammation elsewhere in the body, Dr. Wu says. Treatment options for moderate to severe psoriasis include phototherapy; systemic medications such as acitretin, cyclosporine and methotrexate; and biologics, which block the immune system responses that fuel inflammation.

Recent studies have indicated that biologic medications may improve cardiovascular symptoms in some psoriasis patients, Dr. Wu says, but the exact reason for this improvement remains unclear. He says more research is required to determine whether a direct connection exists between biologic treatment and the improvement of cardiovascular symptoms, and to evaluate how biologics compare to other psoriasis treatments in reducing cardiovascular diseases. In the meantime, he advises all psoriasis patients to seek treatment, maintain a healthy weight and talk to their doctor about screening for cardiovascular conditions.

Psoriasis Cure with Homeopathy: Fact or Fiction
Psoriasis, a chronic autoimmune skin disease has phases of exaggeration and remission. Homeopathic remedies are used to treat psoriasis and prevent its recurrence.

"Psoriasis is a serious medical condition that can have a detrimental effect on your overall health," Dr. Wu says. "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."

Diet for Psoriasis
Learn what causes psoriasis, the appropriate diet to follow and the importance of diet in the treatment of this medical condition.

Source-Newswise

Scalp Psoriasis - Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis, Treatment, Health Tips
Scalp psoriasis, a common skin disorder causes lesions on the scalp. There is no cure for scalp psoriasis and can recur after treatment.