Psoriasis may raise your odds
of getting
certain other conditions,
including heart disease
and cancer.
But chances are, you're not
going to get them.
You can work with your doctor
to prevent problems or spot them
early, too.
If you have severe psoriasis,
it might raise your chances
of having heart disease
or a stroke.
Research suggests that treating
your skin condition
can lower the risks
to your heart and blood vessels.
Psoriasis is linked
to some types of cancer as well,
including lymphoma and skin
cancer.
To stay on top of these risks,
ask your doctor if you're
getting all the cancer screening
tests you need.
Your skin condition might also
make you more likely to get type
2 diabetes.
You can lower your risk
by losing any extra weight
and getting routine blood sugar
tests.
Up to 30%
of people with psoriasis
get psoriatic arthritis.
It's a long-term condition that
can bring
on stiff, swollen, and painful
joints.
If you notice signs like these,
talk to your doctor right away.
Treatment can stop it
from getting worse,
or slow it down.
The stress of psoriasis
can raise your chances
of getting depression.
But research shows that getting
your skin condition
under control
can ease depression symptoms.
Knowing the risks
is the first step in staying
healthy.
With the help of your doctor,
you can keep your risks
to a minimum.
