NATION — 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% 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, including the joints and eyes. Experts believe inflammation is the common factor that can impact these different areas.
What causes inflammation in psoriasis?
In people with psoriasis, immune system dysfunction leads to the accumulation of inflammatory cells in the middle layer of the skin, known as the dermis. The condition also accelerates the growth of skin cells in the epidermis, the outer skin layer. Typically, skin cells grow and flake off within a month. In psoriasis, this process speeds up to just a few days. Instead of shedding, skin cells pile up on the skin’s surface, resulting in uncomfortable symptoms such as raised plaques, scales, swelling, and redness or discoloration. Learn more about psoriasis.
Even though psoriasis is a skin condition, the associated inflammation affects 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, studies suggest that lifestyle and dietary changes can help reduce this inflammation. These changes can alleviate symptoms and improve quality of life, allowing many people with psoriasis to maintain remission—a long period without experiencing symptoms.
Additionally, certain medications used to treat psoriasis work by reducing inflammation. These include topical corticosteroids, injectable biologics, and oral medications. Treatment needs vary among individuals; some may require more extensive interventions 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 the chances of experiencing remission:
Eating a nutritious diet
Diet is strongly linked to systemic inflammation. Certain dietary patterns can increase the risk of psoriasis and worsen its symptoms. Establishing a nutritious diet may involve:
- Avoiding inflammatory foods: Foods and beverages that contain pro-inflammatory substances can trigger psoriasis symptoms. Examples include soda, ultra-processed foods, salty snacks, sweets, and processed meats. Discover foods to avoid.
- Considering an anti-inflammatory diet: Diets rich in fruits, vegetables, and other nutritious foods consistently reduce psoriasis symptoms. For instance, a 2018 study of over 35,000 people, including 3,557 with psoriasis, suggested that those who followed a Mediterranean-style diet experienced less severe psoriasis compared to those who did not.
Maintaining a moderate weight
Obesity is a risk factor for developing psoriasis. People with psoriasis who are overweight or obese may also experience more severe symptoms than those with a moderate weight. Weight loss can reduce inflammatory markers and help alleviate psoriasis symptoms in individuals with excess body weight. A 2020 study found that people with psoriasis and overweight or obesity who lost 12% of their body weight through a 10-week program experienced a 50–75% reduction in psoriasis severity, with participants losing an average 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 health and worsens inflammatory diseases, including psoriasis. Learn more about smoking and psoriasis.
- Reducing alcohol intake: Excessive drinking can contribute to inflammation and exacerbate psoriasis symptoms. Understand alcohol’s effects on psoriasis.
- Staying active: Avoiding long periods of sitting may help reduce psoriasis symptoms. Research suggests that people with psoriasis who lead sedentary lives have more severe symptoms compared to those who exercise regularly. Explore exercises for psoriasis.
- Getting enough sleep: Insufficient sleep can lead to a pro-inflammatory state in the body. Studies indicate that poor and inconsistent sleep increases inflammation markers in the blood. Experts recommend that adults get 7–9 hours of sleep per night for optimal health. Tips for better sleep.
- Managing stress levels: Prolonged stress can overactivate the immune system and contribute to a pro-inflammatory state. Up to 88% of people with psoriasis report stress as a trigger for their symptoms. Utilizing stress-reducing techniques such as meditation and yoga may help. Stress management resources.
When to seek medical help
Anyone experiencing a psoriasis flare who is interested in learning ways to reduce psoriasis symptoms and inflammation should consider speaking with their healthcare team, including a dermatologist. Healthcare professionals can recommend treatment methods based on symptom severity and provide guidance on diet and lifestyle changes that may help lower inflammation and reduce psoriasis symptoms. They may also suggest taking vitamins or supplements.
— Jillian Kubala, MS, RD
