Other conditions associated with psoriasis
Living with psoriatic disease can bring an increased risk for experiencing what’s called a comorbidity. A comorbidity is a disease or condition that occurs because it is related to a health condition you have, such as psoriasis.
Comorbidities associated with psoriasis include:
Psoriatic arthritis – 30% of people with psoriasis may go on to develop this form of arthritis, which can cause inflammation in both large and small joints and less commonly the spine.14,17 psoriasis arthritis symptoms typically appear between the ages of 30-50 but can occur earlier.13,17
Cardiovascular disease – psoriatic disease can increase the chances of a range of cardiovascular diseases including high blood pressure, central obesity, insulin resistance and dyslipidaemia (abnormal cholesterol levels and other lipids in the blood).6,18
Depression – people living with psoriatic disease can experience depression or symptoms of depression, as well as anxiety about the impact of the condition on day-to-day living.6 To reach out for support and information if you are experiencing any symptoms of depression, visit our resources page.
Crohn’s disease – Crohn’s disease is an inflammatory bowel disease and can be more common in people with psoriasis than the general population.6 Ask your doctor about Crohn’s disease if you experience diarrhoea, abdominal pain, cramping, reduced appetite, and weight loss.19,20
Diabetes – Psoriatic disease and diabetes can share similar genetic and inflammatory patterns.21 Talk to your doctor about any family history of diabetes while managing your condition.
Liver disease – sometimes people with psoriatic disease may experience fatty liver or liver disease and should undertake testing regularly to ensure the liver is healthy.23
Metabolic syndrome – sometimes people with psoriatic disease can be at high risk of metabolic syndrome which is a condition where lifestyle-related diseases like obesity, high blood pressure, and glucose intolerance accumulate together in the body.18
A conversation with your healthcare professional about comorbidities related to psoriasis is the best way to understand what these risks mean for you.
