Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune skin condition that causes patches of thick, red, scaly skin. The elbows, knees, scalp and lower back are usually affected by this long-term condition, which has periods of remission and flare-ups. But in some cases, it can also lead to more complicated side effects. Psoriasis is thought to increase a person’s risk of developing type 2 diabetes, which is known to impair the body’s ability to process blood sugar properly. Tell us more about the connection between psoriasis and diabetes.

What is psoriasis?

Psoriasis is an autoimmune disorder in which the immune system mistakenly attacks skin cells that are healthy. This mistake causes their accelerated production. “Normally, skin cells take about a month to regenerate and replace, but in people with psoriasis, this process can take just a few days,” says the dermatologist. Dr Vijay Singhal. The build-up of dead skin cells forms scales and red, inflamed patches that can be itchy or painful. There are many types of psoriasisplaque psoriasis being the most common type, according to research published in StatPearls in 2023. If you have plaque psoriasis, you will notice raised, inflamed lesions covered with silvery-white scales on the affected areas.

The exact cause of psoriasis remains unclear, but it is thought to be due to the following:

• In psoriasis, the immune system malfunctions and starts attacking healthy skin cells, speeding up the skin cell production cycle.
• If a family member or close relative has psoriasis, your chances of developing the condition increase.
• Certain environmental factors such as infections, skin damage, stress and smoking can trigger or worsen psoriasis flare-ups.

The link between psoriasis and diabetes

Psoriasis is associated with other health conditions, including diabetes. Psoriasis is considered as a risk factor for diabetes and vice versa, according to research published in Diabetes, metabolic syndrome and obesity journal in 2020. During a study published in Clinical, cosmetic and investigative dermatology journal in 2014, the prevalence of diabetes among people with mild or severe psoriasis was about 37.4 percent and 41 percent, respectively.

“Psoriasis and diabetes in particular type 2 diabetesare often linked as both are chronic inflammatory conditions,” says Dr Singhal. The association between the two is largely due to the systemic inflammation caused by psoriasis. Immune system overactivity causes widespread inflammation in the body, which can affect insulin sensitivity, increasing the risk of diabetes.

A 2016 study published in JAMA Dermatology also found that psoriasis and diabetes are also associated with similar risk factors, such as obesity, cardiovascular disease, and kidney disease. “Psoriasis is also linked to metabolic syndromea group of conditions, including high blood pressure and high cholesterol, all of which are risk factors for type 2 diabetes,” says Dr. Singhal.

Management of psoriasis and diabetes

To manage both psoriasis and diabetes, you need to address both conditions simultaneously and improve your overall health.

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1. Medicines

For psoriasis, treatments include topical ointments, light therapy, and systemic medications, such as biologics, that target certain parts of the immune system. Diabetes management may involve insulin or oral medications to control blood sugar levels.

2. Healthy food

A balanced diet that emphasizes anti-inflammatory foods can help manage both health conditions. Foods like green leafy vegetables, fatty fish, nuts, seeds and whole grains can reduce inflammation in the body. “Limiting processed foods, sugar and unhealthy fats can also help manage blood sugar levels in diabetes and control psoriasis flare-ups,” says the expert.

3. Weight management

Maintaining a healthy weight is crucial because obesity is a risk factor for psoriasis and diabetes. Losing excess weight through healthy eating and exercise can reduce inflammation, improve insulin sensitivity, and reduce the severity of psoriasis symptoms.

4. Skin care

For people with psoriasis, gentle skin care routines can help reduce flare-ups. Regular hydration, use of non-irritating products and protecting the skin from injury are essential. Dry and itchy skin is also common in diabetics, so be sure to hydrate well.

5. Blood sugar monitoring

For those with diabetes, regular monitoring of blood sugar levels is crucial to prevent complications such as eye problems, foot problems, stroke and heart disease. Be sure to work with your doctor to adjust your medications as needed.

How to prevent diabetes and psoriasis?

It mostly comes down to adopting certain lifestyle changes to prevent diabetes and psoriasis –

1. Regular exercise

To maintain a healthy weight, aim for about 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week. You can walk or run or do yoga. Any type of physical activity can improve insulin sensitivity and help regulate blood sugar levels and prevent diabetes.

2. Quit smoking and limit alcohol consumption

Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption can increase the risk of both psoriasis and type 2 diabetes. “Quitting smoking and reducing alcohol consumption can help you manage these conditions and protect your overall health,” says the expert. .

3. Regular health checks

If you have psoriasis, work closely with your doctor to monitor your blood sugar. You can also use different types of meters at home to check your blood sugar levels. You should check your overall metabolic health regularly to detect diabetes early.

4. Skin care

Good skin care practices, including regular moisturizing and avoiding harsh soaps or products with harsh chemicals, can help manage psoriasis. “If you already have diabetes, pay special attention to your skin care routine to avoid any infections or dry skin,” says the expert.

Psoriasis and diabetes are separate diseases, but they are chronic conditions that can significantly affect your quality of life. Inflammation appears to play a critical role in both conditions, making it essential that people with either condition adopt anti-inflammatory lifestyle practices. By managing weight, eating a healthy diet, staying active, and controlling blood sugar, people can effectively manage both psoriasis and diabetes, or reduce their risk of developing them.