Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune skin condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It results in the rapid growth of skin cells and causes plaques, scales, and red patches to appear on the skin.

While psoriasis is primarily a skin condition, it can reveal a lot about your overall health. Here are six things that psoriasis reveals about your health.

1. Your Immune System Is Overactive

Psoriasis is an autoimmune disease, which means that your immune system attacks healthy cells in your body. When you have psoriasis, your immune system is overactive and triggers an inflammatory response.

This inflammation causes the overproduction of skin cells, resulting in the characteristic plaques, scales, and red patches.

2. You May Be at Higher Risk of Developing Other Health Conditions

People with psoriasis are at higher risk of developing other health conditions, such as psoriatic arthritis, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and depression.

These conditions are linked to the chronic inflammation that occurs in the body when you have psoriasis.

3. Your Diet May Play a Role in Your Psoriasis

While a specific diet won’t cure psoriasis, what you eat can affect the severity of your symptoms.

Some people find that certain foods trigger their psoriasis flare-ups, while others find that certain foods can help reduce inflammation and improve their skin. Some foods that may trigger psoriasis include alcohol, red meat, gluten, and processed foods. On the other hand, anti-inflammatory foods such as fatty fish, nuts and seeds, fruits, and vegetables can be beneficial for people with psoriasis.

4. Stress Can Worsen Your Psoriasis

Stress is a common trigger for psoriasis and can worsen existing symptoms. When you’re under stress, your body releases hormones that can trigger an inflammatory response.

Stress can also impact your immune system, making it harder for your body to fight off infections and exacerbating your psoriasis symptoms. Managing stress through relaxation techniques such as yoga or meditation can help improve your psoriasis symptoms.

5. Your Family History May Play a Role in Your Psoriasis

Psoriasis has a genetic component, meaning that if someone in your family has psoriasis, you may be more likely to develop it. About one-third of people with psoriasis have a family history of the condition.

If you have a family history of psoriasis, it’s important to be aware of the potential risk and take steps to reduce your chances of developing it.

6. Your Skin Cancer Risk May Be Higher

People with psoriasis are at higher risk of developing skin cancer, particularly squamous cell carcinoma and basal cell carcinoma.

This is because people with psoriasis have a higher risk of sun exposure, and their skin is already inflamed, which can increase the risk of developing skin cancer. It’s important to protect your skin from the sun and have regular skin cancer screenings if you have psoriasis.

Conclusion

Psoriasis is a complex condition that can reveal a lot about your overall health. By understanding these six factors and taking steps to manage your psoriasis, you can not only improve your skin but also your overall health and wellbeing.