Psoriatic arthritis is a chronic inflammatory condition that affects the joints and causes symptoms of both psoriasis and arthritis. It is estimated that around 30% of individuals with psoriasis eventually develop psoriatic arthritis.

While the condition primarily affects the joints, research has shown that it can also have a profound impact on cardiovascular health. In fact, individuals with psoriatic arthritis have a higher risk of developing various heart-related complications compared to the general population.

This article will discuss some of the potential heart-related complications associated with psoriatic arthritis and explore the underlying mechanisms that contribute to these risks.

1. Increased Risk of Cardiovascular Disease

Studies have consistently shown that individuals with psoriatic arthritis have a higher risk of cardiovascular disease, including conditions such as heart attack and stroke.

A large-scale study conducted in Sweden found that individuals with psoriatic arthritis had a 43% increased risk of a major cardiovascular event compared to the general population. Furthermore, the risk was even higher in individuals with severe psoriatic arthritis.

2. Hypertension

Psoriatic arthritis has been associated with hypertension, also known as high blood pressure.

Hypertension is a leading risk factor for cardiovascular disease and can increase the likelihood of heart attack, stroke, and other heart-related complications. The chronic inflammation associated with psoriatic arthritis is believed to contribute to the development of hypertension.

3. Atherosclerosis

Atherosclerosis is a condition characterized by the buildup of plaque in the arteries, narrowing them and potentially leading to cardiovascular complications.

Research has shown that individuals with psoriatic arthritis tend to have higher levels of inflammatory markers and oxidative stress, both of which contribute to the development of atherosclerosis. The chronic inflammation seen in psoriatic arthritis may accelerate the formation of plaque in the arteries.

4. Increased Risk of Myocardial Infarction

Myocardial infarction, commonly known as a heart attack, is a serious complication of cardiovascular disease.

Multiple studies have found that individuals with psoriatic arthritis have an increased risk of myocardial infarction compared to those without the condition. The chronic inflammation and systemic involvement in psoriatic arthritis contribute to the increased risk of heart attack.

5. Congestive Heart Failure

Congestive heart failure occurs when the heart is unable to pump enough blood to meet the body’s needs.

Individuals with psoriatic arthritis may have an increased risk of developing congestive heart failure due to the chronic inflammation of the cardiovascular system. Additionally, certain medications used to manage psoriatic arthritis, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), may further increase the risk of congestive heart failure.

6. Abnormal Lipid Profiles

Abnormal lipid profiles, characterized by high levels of cholesterol and triglycerides, are common in individuals with psoriatic arthritis.

Dyslipidemia is a known risk factor for cardiovascular disease and can contribute to the development of atherosclerosis and other heart-related complications.

7. Impaired Endothelial Function

The endothelium is the inner lining of blood vessels and plays a crucial role in maintaining their health and function.

Individuals with psoriatic arthritis may experience impaired endothelial function, which can contribute to the development of atherosclerosis and increase the risk of cardiovascular complications.

8. Peripheral Artery Disease

Psoriatic arthritis has been associated with an increased risk of peripheral artery disease (PAD), a condition characterized by the narrowing of the arteries that supply blood to the limbs.

PAD can lead to pain, numbness, and in severe cases, tissue death. Individuals with psoriatic arthritis are at a higher risk of developing PAD compared to those without the condition.

9. Venous Thromboembolism

Venous thromboembolism (VTE) refers to the formation of blood clots in the veins, most commonly in the deep veins of the legs. These clots can travel to the lungs and cause a pulmonary embolism, a potentially life-threatening condition.

Individuals with psoriatic arthritis have been found to have an increased risk of VTE, likely due to the chronic inflammation and systemic involvement seen in the condition.

10. Impact of Systemic Inflammation

The underlying systemic inflammation in psoriatic arthritis plays a crucial role in the development of heart-related complications. Chronic inflammation can damage blood vessels, promote the formation of plaques, and increase the risk of thrombosis.

Additionally, the release of inflammatory cytokines can disrupt normal cardiac function and contribute to heart-related complications.