What causes
Psoriasis?
Psoriasis is not contagious. It cannot be caught from touching
someone who has the condition, swimming in the same pool, sharing
towels, or eating food prepared by a person with
psoriasis.3 Psoriasis is much more complex, so that
even now, it is not completely understood. However, there is good
evidence indicating that the process of accelerated skin cell
renewal is driven by immune cells (T cells), which become
overactive to produce inflammatory chemicals that act as if they
are fighting an infection or healing a
wound.1,2
About 30% of people with psoriasis have a family history of the
condition, and certain genes have been linked to
psoriasis.3 However, the condition will only appear
if it is triggered by an environmental
factor.3 Triggers may include stressful life
events, infection with certain viruses and bacteria, skin injury,
or reactions to certain medications.3
Additional health concerns
Skin inflammation in psoriasis is just the tip of the iceberg.
There is increasing evidence linking psoriasis with other serious
health conditions, such as cardiovascular disease,11,13
diabetes,14,15
obesity,14,15 liver disease,11
psoriatic arthritis,11,12 inflammatory bowel
disease,11,12 and depression.11 These
conditions are known as "co-morbidities" of psoriasis and appear to
have an increased frequency in those suffering from more severe
disease.11
What effect does psoriasis have on peoples' lives?
Psoriasis can affect people differently. For some it may be seen as
a nuisance, but for others it will affect every aspect of their
daily life. Psoriasis can have a profound impact on a person's
physical, emotional and psychological wellbeing.
Depending on the severity and location of outbreaks, individuals
may experience significant physical discomfort and some disability.
Itching and pain can interfere with basic functions, such as
self-care, walking, and sleep.4Those living with
psoriasis often report that they feel stigmatized because of their
skin condition.5 As a result of reactions from the
public, they can feel embarrassed, have poor self-image and have
lower self-confidence.6Psychological distress can lead
to significant depression, increased anxiety, and social
disconnection and isolation.6-8
In addition, individuals with psoriasis are more likely to make
poor lifestyle choices. They may exercise less, make poor dietary
choices, smoke more and drink alcohol in excess.9,10.
Psoriasis is associated with a number of additional health
concerns, which can place an additional burden on those with
psoriasis, further limiting their life choices. How some manage
these various stresses depends on the way they think about their
disease, along with their coping skills and social support
networks.16Some people may live with psoriasis
successfully, whereas others may feel that they are living their
lives very differently from the way they would have
chosen.
Of those with psoriasis:6
84% avoided sporting activities
83% felt the need to hide their condition
74% reported lowered self confidence
46% were chronically depressed
35% felt inhibited in their sexual relationships
23% thought their psoriasis affected their career choice
