The Link Between Psoriatic Arthritis and Cardiovascular Health Conditions
Psoriatic arthritis (PsA) is a chronic autoimmune disease that affects both skin and joints. It’s estimated that between 10 and 30% of individuals with psoriasis will develop PsA. While the symptoms of PsA are primarily noticeable in the joints and skin, research has found that there may be a link between PsA and cardiovascular health conditions.
Understanding Psoriatic Arthritis
PsA is classified as an inflammatory type of arthritis, which means that joint pain and stiffness are caused by inflammation. In addition to joint pain and skin changes, individuals with PsA may also experience fatigue, eye inflammation (uveitis), and nail changes. PsA can cause significant disability, with some people experiencing limitations in their ability to work and participate in activities of daily living.
The Link Between PsA and Cardiovascular Health
While it may seem unlikely that a joint and skin condition would be linked to cardiovascular disease, there is evidence to suggest that this is indeed the case. In fact, individuals with PsA have been found to have a higher prevalence of traditional cardiovascular risk factors, such as hypertension, diabetes, and obesity, compared to individuals without PsA.
Possible Mechanisms
Researchers are currently exploring the mechanisms that could explain the link between PsA and cardiovascular health conditions. One possibility is that the chronic inflammation that characterizes PsA may also contribute to cardiovascular disease. Another possibility is that the traditional cardiovascular risk factors that are more common in individuals with PsA may be contributing factors.
Reducing the Risk
If you have PsA, it’s important to prioritize cardiovascular health in addition to managing your joint and skin symptoms. This involves adopting lifestyle changes, such as maintaining a healthy weight, eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, and not smoking. In addition to these lifestyle changes, your doctor may recommend medications to help manage traditional cardiovascular risk factors, such as hypertension and diabetes.
Conclusion
While the exact link between PsA and cardiovascular health conditions is still being studied, it’s clear that there is a relationship between these two conditions. If you have PsA, make sure to discuss your cardiovascular health with your doctor so that you can take proactive steps to mitigate your risk. By adopting a healthy lifestyle and managing any relevant risk factors, you can help protect your heart and your overall health.
