How Can Psoriasis and Psoriatic Arthritis Affect Your Health?

You know that psoriatic arthritis affects your skin, nails, joints and tendons. But it can affect other aspects of your health, too. Having two chronic conditions can be challenging to manage. But studies show that most people with psoriatic arthritis also have at least one other medical condition. Understanding these health risks will help you work with your doctor to effectively manage your health.

Psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis are associated with nearly double the risk for a cluster of conditions called metabolic syndrome. These include high blood pressure, a high blood sugar level, excess belly fat and high cholesterol that together increase the risk of heart disease, diabetes and liver disease.

Having psoriatic arthritis puts you at greater risk for coronary artery disease, heart attack and stroke. Making important lifestyle changes, such as quitting smoking, eating a healthy diet, keeping a healthy weight and getting regular exercise can help reduce these risks. Get regular heart screenings and closely follow the heart health treatment plan your doctor recommends.

Studies show an increased risk of type II diabetes among people with psoriatic arthritis. Some studies report that it’s more likely among women with psoriatic arthritis and people who take corticosteroids. Exercising, eating a healthful diet, maintaining a healthy weight and monitoring blood sugar levels can decrease this risk.

Studies suggest that obesity is a risk factor for developing psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis. And the majority of people with psoriatic arthritis carry extra weight around the middle, which is more dangerous to your health than fat on your hips and thighs. Carrying excess weight not only increases disease activity but may affect your treatment response. Combine healthy nutrition with exercise to achieve and maintain a healthy weight. Talk to an expert if you need help getting started.

Dry eye syndrome and uveitis are common eye complications of psoriatic arthritis. Dry eye syndrome causes dry, burning, gritty-feeling eyes. Uveitis causes pain, redness, blurred vision and light sensitivity. If not controlled, uveitis can lead to vision loss. People with psoriatic arthritis should have regular eye exams.

Psoriasis is linked to an increased risk of developing chronic kidney disease. Having severe psoriasis, using NSAIDs or having psoriatic arthritis further increases this risk. Keeping healthy blood pressure and reducing cholesterol levels can protect kidney health.

A type of liver disease called nonalcoholic fatty liver disease has been associated with psoriasis. Having psoriatic arthritis increases this risk. Some drugs, such as methotrexate and NSAIDs used to manage psoriatic arthritis, can also affect the liver, so your doctor will monitor your liver function regularly.

Depression and anxiety are common among people with psoriasis, and even more common among people with psoriatic arthritis. Have a strong support network to help you manage your emotional health and seek professional help if it’s hard to function.

Study results are mixed whether people with psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis are at an increased risk for osteoporosis. But the benefits of strong, healthy bones are clear. Make emphatic to get adequate calcium and vitamin D, and participate in regular weight-bearing exercise to reduce your risk of osteoporosis and fracture.

Working with your doctors to control systemic inflammation will have a great impact on potential health risks. Getting regular exercise, eating a healthful diet, maintaining a healthy weight and keeping blood pressure and cholesterol at healthy levels will further reduce these risks.