8 Possible Psoriasis Complications and How to Reduce Your Risk

In and of itself, psoriasis is already a pain — often quite literally. The irritated patches of skin can burn and feel sore. Add in the itchiness and cosmetic concerns, and it’s no surprise so many people with this skin condition seek treatment.

Managing your psoriasis can also help you limit your risk of facing complications from it. And since psoriasis comes with various associated health problems, you benefit from partnering with an experienced dermatologist. This way, you can work together to protect not just your skin but your overall well-being. 

As psoriasis specialists, Kenneth Warrick, MD, FAAD, and our team come alongside you to treat your symptoms while helping you limit your risk of complications. Visit us at Atlantic Dermatology in Longs, South Carolina, to get started with a customized care plan.

Seeking treatment sooner rather than later can help you avoid some of the complications that can accompany psoriasis. 

Common psoriasis complications

Psoriasis doesn’t just affect your skin. People with this condition are more likely to come up against a wide range of other health problems. Eight of the most common complications associated with psoriasis include:

1. A higher risk of esophageal, liver, oral, and pancreatic cancer
2. Chronic kidney disease
3. Eye problems like uveitis (eye inflammation), dry eye, and pink eye
4. Gastrointestinal issues like inflammatory bowel disease and celiac disease
5. Metabolic syndrome, which can contribute to diabetes, obesity, and more
6. Parkinson’s disease
7. Problems with the mucous membranes in your mouth
8. Psoriatic arthritis

On top of all these physical complications, living with psoriasis can also take a toll on your mental health. Feeling less than confident about the way your skin looks can contribute to symptoms of anxiety and depression.

Limiting complications with tailored treatment

Research into the link between psoriasis and a lot of these complications is still in its early phases. Today, some experts theorize that the way this skin condition is treated can contribute to these added issues. Some researchers think that the risk for certain types of cancer goes up because of the systemic medications often used to treat psoriasis, for example.

To help you get relief from irritated skin while limiting your risk of complications, Dr. Warrick and our team work with you to develop an effective treatment plan. As much as possible, we lean on lifestyle changes because they’re such a safe way to help your skin. Knowing and avoiding your psoriasis triggers — like stress or exposure to extreme temperatures — often makes a big difference. 

We also recommend other lifestyle adjustments, including:

• A nutritious diet
• Keeping your skin clean
• Minimizing scratching
• Regular exercise
• Stress management
• Sufficient sleep

These healthy practices can help you lower your risk for complications from metabolic syndrome, ease mental health symptoms, soothe gastrointestinal issues, and more. 

Dr. Warrick may also recommend targeted treatments. We have patients who get relief from their psoriasis with:

• Dietary supplements
• Injections
• Light therapy
• Oral medications
• Topical medicines

We’re here to help you keep your skin healthy while also protecting your overall well-being. For a personalized treatment plan from a provider who’s cognizant of potential complications, call our office today or use our online booking feature to get started.