Chronic inflammation from psoriasis may lead to certain heart conditions, such as atherosclerosis and arrhythmia. Exercise, stress reduction, and diet can lower your risk.
Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune disease that inflames areas of the skin. The condition causes discomfort and itching. It also causes raised skin lesions because of an abnormally fast turnover of skin cells.
Like other autoimmune diseases, psoriasis causes your immune system to overreact to a perceived threat, triggering inflammation in your body. This inflammation can increase your risk of heart disease.
This article takes a closer look at psoriasis and the risk of heart disease.
Inflammation from psoriasis can take many forms. These may include reddened patches of skin on your body and psoriatic arthritis. Symptoms can also include conjunctivitis and inflammation of the lining of your eyelids.
Generally, people with any type of psoriasis are up to 50% more likely to develop heart disease than people without psoriasis. That’s because blood vessels can also become inflamed, leading to the development of atherosclerosis.
Atherosclerosis is the buildup of a fatty substance called plaque inside your artery walls. Plaque slows or interrupts the flow of blood to your heart, heightening your risk of heart disease and heart attack.
Some psoriasis treatments can result in irregular cholesterol levels. This can harden the arteries and make a heart attack even more likely. People with psoriasis have also been found to have an increased risk of coronary heart disease, according to the
Up to 30% of people with psoriasis will eventually develop psoriatic arthritis.
People who have severe forms of skin disease and are under age 60 are more likely to develop heart disease, according to findings published in the American Journal of Cardiology.
Psoriasis can increase the risk of heart problems. But you can strengthen your heart through diet, exercise, and stress reduction.
Does treating psoriasis lower your risk of heart disease?
The American Academy of Dermatology suggests treating psoriasis may lower your chance of heart disease and stroke.
Observational data from a
The following lifestyle changes may help reduce your risk of developing heart disease.
Add daily exercise to your life
Making lifestyle adjustments such as quitting smoking and incorporating daily exercise can improve your heart health. The
As far as the type of exercise, there are many different types, including:
- dancing
- walking
- swimming
- jumping rope
Do whatever makes you happy — as long as you get your heart pounding. Vigorous, high intensity workouts elevate your heart rate for longer periods.
Aim for 30 minutes of aerobic exercise, but don’t worry if you can’t reach that goal. Shorter walks and jogs benefit your heart if done regularly.
Try reducing your stress
Stress reduction and exercise can benefit your cardiovascular system. Stress causes you to tense up and can intensify symptoms of heart disease and psoriasis.
Physical activity can release physical and mental tension in many people. Relaxation as a practice through deep breathing and visualization can also help reduce stress.
Eat a heart-healthy, nutritious diet
What you eat plays a role in improving heart health. Diet may also have a positive effect on psoriasis. A heart-healthy diet includes healthy fats and whole grains. It also involves reducing your intake of saturated fats, trans fats, and sodium.
Consider making these changes to your diet to improve your heart health:
- Choose whole grain pasta and bread, as well as brown rice.
- Limit fried food and baked goods.
- Concentrate on lean proteins such as fish, chicken, and beans.
- Cook with healthy fat, which can be found in olive and flaxseed oils.
In addition to eating healthy, a
Increase your intake of omega-3 fatty acids
Omega-3 fatty acids are important for people who have psoriasis and an increased risk of heart disease. Your body can’t make these essential nutrients, so you need to get them through food.
Omega-3 fatty acids are an example of a “healthy fat.” They may lower your cholesterol levels and improve your cardiovascular system.
Omega-3 fatty acids are building blocks in the production of hormones that help regulate a series of bodily functions. Increasing your intake of omega-3 fatty acids may lower triglyceride levels. This means your blood vessels are less likely to accumulate the plaque that can lead to heart disease.
Omega-3 fatty acids are mainly found in fatty fish like:
- salmon
- mackerel
- tuna
- sardines
Shrimp and scallops contain what is sometimes referred to as marine omegas.
Plant food sources of omega-3s include:
- leafy vegetables
- flax seeds
- chia seeds
- strawberries
- raspberries
- soy products such as tofu and miso
- walnuts
Fish oil supplements are another way to increase omega-3 intake if you don’t get enough through your diet. Your doctor may advise you to take fish oil supplements if you have a risk for heart disease and psoriasis.
Consult a doctor if you have questions about your chronic skin condition or cardiovascular health. Annual checkups are recommended, especially if you’re over age 60.
If you have psoriasis, be aware of the risk factors and the symptoms of a heart attack. These include:
- chest pain or discomfort
- pain or discomfort in the arms or other areas of the upper body
- back, neck, and jaw pain
- shortness of breath
- breaking out in a cold sweat
- nausea
- lightheadedness
If you experience these symptoms or have other reasons to suspect you’re having a heart attack, call 911 or local emergency services to get medical help right away.
Psoriasis should be considered a risk factor for heart disease similar to that of a strong family history, high blood pressure, or high cholesterol.
Have a conversation with a doctor about your risks and what you can do to reduce these risks. Your doctor may recommend you take medications that lower your risk for heart disease, such as aspirin, or cholesterol-lowering medications, such as statins.
Pursuing a healthy lifestyle by eating well, getting daily exercise, and reducing stress are some lifestyle modifications that can also help reduce your risk for heart disease.