Psoriasis is a chronic and complex autoimmune disease that is characterized by inflamed and scaly patches on a person’s skin.

The disease’s manifestation may be triggered by several factors, including genetic makeup, immune system problems, and environmental triggers such as stress, infections, and injuries. When a person encounters a crisis, a traumatic event or prolonged stress, there is an increased risk of psoriasis flare-ups and worsening of symptoms.

This article analyzes the impact of the crisis, such as pandemics, economic recessions, or social unrest, on psoriasis.

1. Stress and Anxiety Triggers Psoriasis

Stressful events such as natural disasters, death of a loved one, relationship challenges, or job loss can trigger the onset or exacerbation of psoriasis symptoms.

Stress triggers the sympathetic nervous system and the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, which in turn activate immune cells, leading to inflammation and flares. When an individual is dealing with a crisis, the constant worry, fear, and anxiety can lead to disrupted sleep patterns, mood swings, and loss of appetite.

These factors can lead to hormonal imbalances, reducing the body’s ability to regulate inflammation and worsening psoriasis symptoms.

2. Limited Access to Medical Care

During a crisis, it is possible for medical resources to be stretched thin, and access to care for conditions such as psoriasis may be limited.

With the COVID-19 pandemic, health facilities have had to prioritize resources for treating critically ill patients, leading to the cancellation of elective procedures and appointments that are not deemed urgent. Consequently, psoriasis patients may have difficulties accessing routine care, which can lead to the worsening of symptoms, including compromised skin and joint health and increased risk for comorbidities such as heart disease.

3. Caring for Personal Health

During a crisis, people’s attention and efforts may shift away from self-care practices that are critical for managing psoriasis.

With people having to cope with the impact of the crisis on their personal or professional life, the focus on exercise, a healthy diet, sleep hygiene, and stress management that are necessary for psoriasis management may wane. Moreover, social distancing may limit access to outdoor spaces or exercise facilities that patients relied on to manage their psoriasis.

The inability to get sunlight exposure may also lead to an increase in the symptoms of psoriasis due to vitamin D deficiency that is linked to the condition.

Related Article Psoriasis: A Deeper Look

4. Changes in Medication Use and Availability

During a crisis, disruptions in the supply chain or pharmaceutical manufacturing can lead to shortages of medication for psoriasis treatment.

Additionally, economic challenges may limit access to medication for people who may have lost their health insurance or whose financial resources are strained. The discontinuation of medication or switching to inferior-quality medication can lead to reduced efficacy in managing psoriasis symptoms and an increased risk of adverse events.

5. Psychological Impact of the Crisis

People dealing with crises, especially pandemics that may require social distancing or quarantine, may experience feelings of isolation, hopelessness, uncertainty, or fear, which can lead to mental health issues such as depression or anxiety.

The mental health burden caused by the crisis can further worsen psoriasis symptoms and lead to an increased risk of comorbidities such as obesity, diabetes, or heart disease. Anxiety and depression can also lead to unhealthy behaviors such as overeating, alcohol abuse, or tobacco use that are known psoriasis triggers.

6. Coping Strategies for Managing Psoriasis during a Crisis

Despite the challenges that a crisis presents in managing psoriasis, several coping strategies can be implemented to help manage symptoms. These include:.

7. Sticking to a routine

During a crisis, establishing a daily routine, including regular sleep, exercise, and mealtimes, can provide structure and consistency, thereby minimizing stress and anxiety.

Routine also helps re-establish self-care practices that are critical for psoriasis management.

8. Telemedicine Appointments

Psoriasis patients can have appointments with their medical professionals over the phone or online where in-person consultations are limited. Virtual appointments can offer a convenient alternative to in-person visits.

9. Stay Connected with Support Systems

People with psoriasis require social connectedness to reduce feelings of social isolation and anxiety.

Staying connected with support systems such as friends, family members, or psoriasis support groups can provide emotional support, reducing the impact of a crisis on mental health well-being.

10. Practice Self-Care

Engaging in self-care practices such as meditation, deep breathing exercises, journaling, or yoga can help one manage stress and anxiety. Self-care practices can also help manage psoriasis symptoms and improve overall well-being.