Managing chronic inflammation with psoriasis

Although the exact cause of psoriasis is unknown, doctors consider it an immune-mediated inflammatory disease. This means that inflammation is at the root of this condition.

Up to 3%Trusted Source of adults in the United States have psoriasis. It causes skin symptoms, such as raised plaques and discoloration, and can also affect other parts of the body, such as the joints and eyes.

Experts believe inflammation is the common factor that can affect these different areas.

What causes inflammation in psoriasis?

In people with psoriasis, immune system dysfunction causes inflammatory cells to build up in the middle layer of the skin, known as the dermis. The condition also speeds the growth of skin cells in the epidermis, the outer skin layer.

Typically, skin cells grow and flake off in the span of a month. This process speeds up to just a few days in people with psoriasis. Instead of shedding, skin cells pile up on the skin’s surface, leading to uncomfortable symptoms such as raised plaques, scales, swelling, and redness or discoloration. 

Even though psoriasis is a skin condition, the inflammation associated with psoriasis affectsTrusted Source the entire body. It can increase the risk of heart disease, cancer, inflammatory bowel disease, and psoriatic arthritis.

Is there a way to treat inflammation?

Although inflammation in psoriasis is due to immune system dysregulation, studiesTrusted Source suggest that people can reduce this inflammation through lifestyle and dietary changes. This can help reduce symptoms and improve quality of life.

Using these methods, many people who have psoriasis can maintain remission, which is a long period without experiencing psoriasis symptoms.

Additionally, certain medications to treat psoriasis work by reducing inflammation. These include topical corticosteroids, injectable biologics, and oral medications.

Everyone with psoriasis is different. Some people will require more extensive treatment than others.

How to manage inflammation?

While there is currently no cure for psoriasis, the following habits may help reduce psoriasis-related inflammation and increase a person’s chances of experiencing remission.

 Eating a nutritious diet

Diet is strongly linked to systemic inflammation. Studies suggest that certain inflammatory dietary patterns can increase the risk of psoriasis and worsen symptoms. The following steps may help a person establish one:

Avoiding inflammatory foods: Certain foods and beverages contain pro-inflammatory substances that increase inflammation and trigger psoriasis symptoms.  

Considering an anti-inflammatory diet: Diets that are rich in fruits, vegetables, and other nutritious foods consistently reduce psoriasis symptoms.

 Maintaining a moderate weight

Weight loss may reduce inflammatory markers and help reduce psoriasis symptoms in people with excess body weight.

A 2020 study found that people with psoriasis and overweight or obesity who reduced their body weight by 12% through a 10-week program experienced a 50–75% reduction in psoriasis severity. Participants experienced an average weight loss of 23 pounds.

 Implementing other healthy habits

Several habits can help reduce inflammation and improve psoriasis symptoms, such as:

Avoiding or quitting smoking: Smoking significantly harms a person’s health and worsens inflammatory diseases, including psoriasis.

Reducing alcohol intake: Excessive drinking can contribute to inflammation and worsen psoriasis symptoms.

Staying active: Avoiding long periods of sitting may help with reducing psoriasis symptoms. One research review suggested that people with psoriasis who live sedentary lives have more severe symptoms compared with people who exercise regularly.

Getting enough sleep: Not getting enough sleep can lead to a pro-inflammatory state in the body.

Managing stress levels: Up to 88%Trusted Source of people with psoriasis report stress as a trigger for their symptoms.