Psoriasis

Beyond the Skin

While psoriasis is primarily a skin disease, its effects are more than skin deep. Having psoriasis can affect people emotionally. Psoriasis is also associated with other diseases.

Emotional Effects

Having psoriasis may cause you to feel self-conscious, particularly if it affects a part of the body that others can see. Some people plan their clothing – such as long skirts vs. knee-length or long-sleeve instead of short-sleeve shirts – to hide affected skin. Others withdraw from sports and other activities where affected skin would show.

Pain, itching and other symptoms can lead to frustration. Uncertainty over the course of the disease or the need for ongoing treatment may cause you to feel anxious or depressed.

In some cases, psoriasis symptoms make it difficult or impossible for people keep up with their jobs, household chores, or favorite activities. Having to give up a job or favorite hobby can further increase the risk of emotional problems.

Getting Help

If you find yourself feeling angry, anxious, or depressed about your psoriasis, speaking with a counselor, clergy member or trusted friend or family member may help. You may also benefit from the support of other people with psoriasis.

Several organizations offer psoriasis support groups. To find one that meets near you, speak with your dermatologist, local hospital, or National Psoriasis Foundation chapter, or search online. Also, look for message boards and online support groups that allow you connect with other people with psoriasis from the comfort of your own home.

Complications

People with psoriasis also have an increased risk of other health problems. As many as 30 percent of people with psoriasis will eventually develop psoriatic arthritis. This is a disease that causes pain and swelling in the joints. Other symptoms of psoriatic arthritis may include swollen fingers and toes; foot pain, particularly in the soles and back of the heels; and low back pain.

Psoriasis-related Conditions

Other diseases and health problems that are more likely in people with psoriasis include

• heart disease and heart attacks
• diabetes
• hypertension (high blood pressure)
• stroke
• atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries)
• Crohn’s disease (an inflammatory disease of the bowel)
• cancer
• metabolic syndrome (a cluster of conditions – increased blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar levels, and body fat around the waist – that increases your risk of stroke, heart disease, and diabetes)
• obesity
• liver disease.

If you have psoriasis is it important to see your healthcare provider regularly. This will not only help you manage your psoriasis, but will also alert you and your doctor to any other health problems that need treatment.