Psoriasis is an inflammatory skin condition that presents as an itchy, scaly rash. Allergies are more wide-ranging. They are triggered by contact with allergens and present with symptoms as minor as a stuffy nose and as severe as anaphylaxis, a life-threatening reaction requiring immediate treatment.
While psoriasis and allergies may present differently, they stem from the same source-a disruption of the immune system. Let’s take a closer look at how each condition presents itself and how they may impact each other.
Symptoms and Causes of Psoriasis
Psoriasis is a cyclical immune-mediated skin condition that can be painful and lead to poor sleep and concentration. There is no known cure, and the condition’s cycle usually flares up for weeks or months at a time, with a calming period afterward. Symptoms of psoriasis may include:
- Itchy, scaly patches on the skin, commonly found on knees, elbows, scalp, chest and back
- Dry, cracked skin
- Itching
- Burning or soreness
- Rashes varying in color and severity
- Fever and dehydration
Psoriasis occurs when the immune system sends cells to fight what it thinks are infections but are actually healthy cells. Infections, cold or dry weather, injuries to the skin such as a cut or scratch, smoking or inflammatory medications may trigger psoriasis.
Symptoms and Causes of Allergies
Allergies occur when your immune system identifies a non-harmful substance as harmful and sends antibodies to attack it. Commonly triggered by pollen, dander, mold and dust, symptoms of allergies differ from allergen to allergen and may include but are not limited to:
- Sneezing
- Stuffy or runny nose
- Red or swollen eyes
- Swelling
- Anaphylaxis
- Hives
- Rash
How Are They Connected?
Allergies and psoriasis both stem from an immune system malfunction. A study on their connection found that allergic diseases, such as allergic rhinitis and asthma, significantly increased the risk of developing psoriasis. Additionally, those who present with both allergies and psoriasis may find that their allergies can spur instances of psoriasis rash. This usually occurs when an allergic reaction causes an individual to scratch their skin, triggering a psoriasis outbreak.
Though psoriasis and allergies can’t be cured, they can be managed. Contact Spartanburg | Greer ENT & Allergy today to make an appointment with one of our allergy specialists.
