Psoriasis and diabetes: what’s the connection?

Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune skin condition that causes patches of thick, red, flaky skin. Most commonly, the elbows, knees, scalp and lower back are affected by this long-term condition that has periods of remission and flare-ups. But in some cases it can also lead to more complicated side effects. Psoriasis is believed to increase the risk of type 2 diabetes, which is known for affecting the body’s ability to properly handle blood sugar levels. Let us know more about the link between psoriasis and diabetes.

What is psoriasis?

Psoriasis is an autoimmune disease in which the immune system accidentally attacks healthy skin cells. This error causes their accelerated production. “Normally, skin cells take about a month to regenerate and replace themselves, but in people with psoriasis, this process can take just a few days,” says dermatologist Dr. Vijay Singhal. The buildup of dead skin cells forms flakes and inflamed red spots, which can be itchy or painful. There are many types of psoriasiswith plaque 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 topped with silvery-white scales on affected areas.

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

• In psoriasis, the immune system does not function properly and begins to attack healthy skin cells, speeding up the skin cell production cycle.
• If a family member or close relative has psoriasis, your chance of developing the condition increases.
• Certain environmental factors, such as infections, skin injuries, stress, and smoking, can cause or worsen psoriasis flare-ups.

Link between psoriasis and diabetes

Psoriasis is associated with other health problems, including diabetes. Psoriasis is considered a risk factor for diabetes and vice versa, as shown in research published in the Diabetes, metabolic syndrome and obesity magazine in 2020. During a study published in the Clinical, cosmetic and research dermatology magazine in 2014, the prevalence of diabetes among individuals with mild or severe psoriasis was found to be approximately 37.4 percent and 41 percent, respectively.

“Especially psoriasis and diabetes 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. The overactivity of the immune system causes widespread inflammation in the body, which can reduce 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 related metabolic syndromea cluster of conditions including high blood pressure and elevated cholesterol levels, 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 overall health.

1. Medicines

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

2. Healthy food

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

3. Weight management

Maintaining a healthy weight is critical 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 moisturizing, using non-irritating products and protecting the skin from injury are essential. Dry and itchy skin is also common in diabetics, so make sure you moisturize well.

5. Blood sugar monitoring

For people with diabetes, regular blood sugar control 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 when necessary.

How to prevent diabetes and psoriasis?

It mainly 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, run or do yoga. Any form of physical activity can improve insulin sensitivity, help regulate blood sugar levels and prevent diabetes.

2. Quit smoking and limit alcohol

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

3. Regular health examinations

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

4. Skin care

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

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