Psoriasis is an autoimmune health condition that primarily affects the skin. However, the inflammation that brings psoriasis may eventually cause other health complications. Research shows that patients with psoriasis are more susceptible to developing other health conditions because of inflammation and insulin response related to psoriasis. Although psoriasis is painful, it’s often managed with prescription medication, such as Otezla, which regulates the inflammation causing the disease. Six health conditions commonly linked to psoriasis are:

1. Lymphoma
Patients with severe or mild psoriasis are more prone to lymphoma. The most common type that affects patients with psoriasis is cutaneous T-cell lymphoma. If you have severe psoriasis, you are more susceptible to CTCL than someone with mild psoriasis.

2. Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS)
This health condition affects the female reproductive system, where tiny sacs of fluid (small cysts) form on the ovaries. There is a proven correlation between PCOS and women with psoriatic disease, and it can also contribute to infertility. PCOS can be treated with metformin, birth control pills, an anti-inflammatory diet, and stress management.

3. Depression
Studies show that patients with psoriasis have twice the risk of being depressed compared to those without this skin condition. Scientists think that the inflammation that causes psoriasis also leads to depression, due to physical and mental challenges associated with living with psoriasis. 

4. Heart disease
Studies show patients are three times more likely to have a stroke and heart attack when they already have psoriasis. This is because inflammation damages the blood vessels going into the brain and heart, which is why quitting smoking, and controlling cholesterol and blood pressure are especially important for psoriasis patients. 

5. Psoriatic arthritis
This is classified as a type of arthritis and psoriasis. The National Psoriasis Foundation says that about 30 percent of psoriasis cases develop psoriatic arthritis. Psoriatic arthritis affects the joints and skin, with early symptoms of swollen or red joints, particularly affecting the elbows, fingers, and spine. Patients also commonly experience pain and stiffness, especially when they wake up. Patients are often referred to a rheumatologist who will treat the condition with anti-inflammatory or anti-rheumatic medications to improve mobility and stop joint damage.

6. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
The inflammation linked to psoriasis may affect your lungs and increase your susceptibility to COPD. This is a collection of lung conditions that inhibit airflow and cause breathing difficulties. Due to this, patients living with psoriasis should avoid smoking and lung irritants such as dust, chemical fumes, and air pollution that raise COPD risk. At-risk patients should be tested early to check for reduced lung function.

Despite a connection between psoriasis and these health conditions, it does guarantee psoriasis patients will develop another linked condition. Patients can avoid the risk of acquiring these health conditions by properly managing psoriasis, sustaining a healthy lifestyle, and keeping their doctor up to date about any health changes. If you experience more frequent psoriasis flare-ups, talk to your doctor about trying other medications.