Psoriasis is more than just itchy red patches. Its impact goes far beyond the surface affecting millions of people worldwide. It is a chronic condition that has no cure. But unlike what you might see in ads, psoriasis isn’t easily treated with a simple cream. Celebrities like Kim Kardashian West and Cyndi Lauper have bravely shared their experiences, helping to raise awareness and break down the stigma often associated with psoriasis.
According to the National Psoriasis Foundation, Psoriasis affects around 2-4% of the global population which is almost 125 million people globally. It’s something many people will come across in their lifetime, either personally or through someone they know.
This blog dives deeper into the world of psoriasis, exploring its hidden effects on our lives. We’ll look beyond the surface, examining how this condition can influence not just our skin, but also our emotional well-being.
Table of Contents
The Link Between Stress and Psoriasis
Psoriasis is an autoimmune disease where the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissues. This attack targets skin cells, causing them to grow too quickly and form the red, itchy patches we see. Inflammation plays a key role in this process and stress can act like a fuel pump for that inflammation.
The HPA Axis and Cortisol:
Our bodies have a built-in stress response system called the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis. When we experience stress, the hypothalamus sends signals to the pituitary gland, which then triggers the adrenal glands to release cortisol. Cortisol is often referred to as the “stress hormone.” Cortisol helps regulate the body’s inflammatory response.
People with psoriasis however have a less efficient HPA axis, leading to lower cortisol production during stressful times. This lack of cortisol can lead to a heightened inflammatory response throughout the body, worsening psoriasis symptoms.
- Stress triggers the HPA axis.
- HPA axis releases less cortisol due to potential inefficiency.
- Lower cortisol weakens the body’s ability to regulate inflammation.
- Unregulated inflammation worsens psoriasis symptoms like redness, itching, and plaque formation.
Studies by the National Library of Medicine show that stress can worsen psoriasis symptoms, with up to 88% of people reporting this connection. Stress might even kickstart psoriasis in people with a genetic risk.
Common Misconceptions
1. Psoriasis is contagious: It’s not. It’s an autoimmune disease, not caused by germs.
2. Psoriasis is just dry skin: While dryness can be a symptom, psoriasis is a more complex condition.
The Emotional Impact of Psoriasis
Psoriasis isn’t just a physical condition. The visibility of these patches can lead to a sense of self-consciousness, particularly in social settings. This, in turn, can contribute to the development of anxiety and even depression.
Psoriasis can cause many psychological burdens for individuals.
- The constant itch and irritation of psoriasis lesions can be incredibly frustrating and disrupt daily life. Imagine focusing on work or sleeping while your skin feels like sandpaper.
- Psoriasis often appears on exposed areas like the scalp, elbows, and knees. This visibility can lead to self-consciousness, especially in social situations. People might worry about how others perceive them, leading to feelings of insecurity.
- The stress of managing a chronic condition, coupled with the self-consciousness triggered by visible symptoms, can easily snowball into anxiety and depression.
- A lack of understanding about psoriasis can sometimes lead to social stigma. People might mistakenly believe it’s contagious, leading to isolation and loneliness. This can further worsen the emotional impact of the condition.
5 Simple Steps to Manage Psoriasis-Stress
Relaxation techniques
Pranayama, meditation, and yoga are some of the best methods of managing stress and attaining a state of relaxation. These practices can assist in reducing the mind and body’s reaction to stress.
Deep breathing exercise
Exercise is one of the best ways of managing psoriasis-stress and at the same time enhancing the general body’s health. Exercise also leads to the production of endorphins which are known to have a positive impact on the mood and also help in improving the quality of sleep. Try to get at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise on most days of the week.
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)
CBT is a kind of therapy that can assist you in changing the distorted ways of thinking that may be causing stress. A therapist can show you how to manage your stress properly so that you do not fall ill easily.
Building a strong support network
Friends, family, and support groups can help with stress relief as well as provide you with the support you need. It is very helpful to speak to someone about your feelings, it can be a friend or a family member.
Healthy sleep habits
Sufficient sleep is important for the health of the body as well as the health of the mind. Stress is easier to handle when one has had adequate sleep as the body and mind are more prepared to deal with stress. Adults should aim to sleep for 7-8 hours every day.
Related post: 10 Ideas for Enhancing Sleep Hygiene for Optimal Health
Psoriasis Treatment Options
While there is no cure for psoriasis, there are treatments that can help manage the symptoms of psoriasis and help improve quality of life. Psoriasis should be diagnosed and treated with the help of a dermatologist. The treatment of this disease depends on the severity of the condition, and several treatment procedures can be administered.
- Topical medications like creams and ointments can be applied topically on the skin to help in decreasing inflammation and itching.
- Light therapy treatment involves exposure to ultraviolet light so that the growth of the skin cells is reduced.
- Oral medications are recommended by doctors which can reduce the activity of the immune system.
- Biologic drugs are relatively newer drugs that work on some components of the immune system that are associated with psoriasis.
Bottom Line
Living with psoriasis can feel overwhelming at times. You might feel like you’re constantly battling itchy flare-ups and the social anxieties that come with them. Even though it might scare you by appearing like a never-ending stressor, it does have effective treatment options. Dermatologists can create a personalized treatment plan.
Most importantly, remember that you don’t have to fight this battle alone. There are many support groups available filled with understanding individuals, and even online resources to connect you with others. With knowledge, self-care, and the right support, you can manage your psoriasis-stress cycle with ease.