Psoriasis and allergy
Blue skies, green meadows and fragrant flowers – spring is just around the corner! But for millions of people, a pollen allergy makes this time of year an ordeal. Approximately 14.8% of Germans react to grasses, birch, and co. with itchy eyes, a runny nose, and general discomfort. People with allergies who also suffer from psoriasis, have it even harder – a double burden to combat. But people with only one of these conditions should also be aware of the possible risks.
THE LINK BETWEEN PSORIASIS AND A POLLEN ALLERGY
A skin condition vs. a runny nose – on the face of it, psoriasis doesn't seem to have anything in common with a pollen allergy.
In fact, there is a verified close link between the two conditions.
Allergies and psoriasis are two conditions that both have an enormous impact on the body's immune system and thus the quality of life of sufferers.
An allergy occurs when the immune system overreacts to normally harmless substances such as pollen, animal hair, or food. The symptoms vary from person to person and can range from mild rashes, cold-like symptoms, and itching to severe reactions such as anaphylaxis (shock). Most people with a pollen allergy only experience the symptoms temporarily – usually in the spring and summer.
In contrast, psoriasis is a chronic, inflammatory autoimmune condition that manifests as red, scaly, and itchy skin changes. The course of the condition is typically characterized by episodes that are sometimes milder and sometimes more severe. There are various causes of psoriasis – but it's clear that the immune system attacks the body's own, healthy tissue. You see – the first parallel to a pollen allergy.
I HAVE PSORIASIS – AM I AT A HIGHER RISK OF DEVELOPING A POLLEN ALLERGY?
A study conducted in 2010 found that people with psoriasis have a higher risk of suffering from allergic conditions such as asthma, hay fever, and eczema.
A possible explanation for this connection is the fact that both an allergy and psoriasis are caused by an overreaction of the immune system. With allergies, the immune system reacts to harmless external substances, whereas with psoriasis it attacks the body's own skin cells. If the immune system is already weakened by psoriasis, there is a chance that the same reaction will also be triggered by grass, pollen, and co. in the spring and summer.
But this connectivity between psoriasis and an allergy can also occur the other way round – having an allergy can increase the likelihood of suffering from psoriasis or neurodermatitis. If someone has a pollen allergy, the immune system reacts by releasing inflammatory messengers such as histamine. Histamine, in turn, also triggers inflammatory reactions that can be seen on the skin.
CONCLUSION AND ACTIONS
On the whole, the connection between a pollen allergy and psoriasis is complex – researchers are still trying to understand how the two conditions actually interact.
However, psoriasis sufferers should always be aware that allergic reactions can cause a flare-up of their psoriasis. Continuous treatment of any skin inflammation is vital – so please don't stop caring for your skin just because winter is over. Alnovat is ideally suited to everyday, topical application, and is your trusted companion all year round.
Allergy sufferers should also bear in mind that simple symptoms such as a runny nose and itchy eyes can lead to inflammation of the skin. If you notice any early signs, you should consult your doctor immediately to help prevent more serious symptoms from occurring.
We wish you a speedy recovery!