diagnostic

Effectively Controlling Persistent Inflammation in Psoriasis

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12 Feb

Although the exact cause of psoriasis is unknown, doctors consider it an immune-mediated inflammatory disease. This means that inflammation is at the root of this condition.

What Triggers Inflammation in Psoriasis?

In individuals experiencing psoriasis, dysfunction in the immune system results in the accumulation of inflammatory cells within the dermis, the middle layer of the skin. Moreover, this condition accelerates the growth of skin cells in the epidermis, the outermost layer of the skin.

Under normal circumstances, skin cells undergo a monthly cycle of growth and shedding. However, in individuals with psoriasis, this process speeds up to just a few days. Rather than shedding properly, the skin cells accumulate on the skin’s surface, giving rise to uncomfortable symptoms like raised plaques, scales, swelling, and redness or discoloration.

Even though psoriasis is a skin condition, the inflammation associated with psoriasis affects the entire body. It can increase the risk of heart disease, cancer, inflammatory bowel disease, and psoriatic arthritis.

Is there a method to address imflammation?

Although inflammation in psoriasis is due to immune system dysregulation, studies suggest that people can reduce this inflammation through lifestyle and dietary changes. This can help reduce symptoms and improve quality of life.

By employing these approaches, numerous individuals managing psoriasis can sustain remission, characterized by an extended duration without the manifestation of psoriasis symptoms.

Furthermore, specific medications designed to address psoriasis operate by diminishing inflammation. These encompass topical corticosteroids, injectable biologics, and oral medications.

Individuals with psoriasis exhibit varying needs, and the level of treatment necessary can differ. Some may necessitate more comprehensive interventions compared to others.

How to manage inflammation?

Diet is strongly linked to systemic inflammation. Studies suggest that certain inflammatory dietary patterns can increase the risk of psoriasis and worsen symptoms.

A well-balanced diet varies for each individual. Nevertheless, the following guidelines can assist individuals in establishing a nutritious eating plan:

Maintaining a healthy weight

Obesity is a risk factor for psoriasis development. People with psoriasis who have overweight or obesity may also experience more severe symptoms than people with a moderate weight.

Weight loss may reduce inflammatory markers and help reduce psoriasis symptoms in people with excess body weight.

A 2020 study found that people with psoriasis and overweight or obesity who reduced their body weight by 12% through a 10-week program experienced a 50–75% reduction in psoriasis severity. Participants experienced an average weight loss of 23 pounds.

Implementing other healthy habits

  • Quit or avoid smoking: Smoking significantly jeopardizes health and worsens inflammatory conditions, including psoriasis.
  • Limit alcohol intake: Excessive alcohol consumption can foster inflammation and worsen psoriasis symptoms.
  • Stay active: Avoiding prolonged periods of sitting may help reduce psoriasis symptoms. Research suggests that individuals with psoriasis who lead sedentary lives experience more severe symptoms compared to those who engage in regular exercise.
  • Ensure sufficient sleep: Inadequate sleep can induce a pro-inflammatory state in the body. Studies indicate that insufficient and irregular sleep patterns can elevate inflammation markers in the blood. Health experts recommend adults aim for 7–9 hours of sleep per night for optimal well-being.
  • Manage stress levels: Prolonged stress can heighten the activity of the immune system and contribute to a pro-inflammatory state. Up to 88% of individuals with psoriasis report stress as a trigger for their symptoms. Using stress-reducing techniques such as meditation and yoga may help.

When should you consult a medical professional?

Anyone experiencing a psoriasis flare who is interested in learning ways to reduce psoriasis symptoms and inflammation may wish to consider speaking with their healthcare team, including their dermatologist.

They can recommend treatment methods based on symptom severity and provide recommendations for diet and lifestyle changes that may help lower inflammation and reduce psoriasis symptoms. They may also suggest taking vitamins or supplements

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Last medically reviewed in 2023

How we reviewed this article

Tertiary references are avoided. Primary sources, such as studies, scientific references, and statistics, are not only linked within each article but are also comprehensively listed in the resources section located at the bottom of our articles.

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