Is there a link between psoriasis and gastrointestinal problems?
Psoriasis is known to be a chronic skin condition, but it can also result in inflammation of the joints. Previous research also shows that Crohn's disease is one of the top comorbidities in psoriasis patients, but the reasoning behind this was unknown. However, new research at Uppsala University in Sweden could explain why those diagnosed with psoriasis are more prone to gastrointestinal problems.
According to Maria Lampinen, a researcher at Uppsala University, people with psoriasis "often have invisible inflammation in their small intestines" which results in an increased risk of leaky gut. In their study involving 33 participants—18 with psoriasis and 15 as healthy controls—researchers took samples from both their small and large intestines and found that the psoriasis group had an increased number of immune cells that showed signs of pro-inflammatory activity. Researchers also found that psoriasis patients in flare-ups had the same type of immune cells in their skin, suggesting that the skin inflammation may impact the gut, or vice versa.
50% of the psoriasis participants reported increased gastrointestinal symptoms such as bloating and abdominal pain compared to the healthy controls. These same participants also had increased leaky gut and inflammatory substance levels in their intestines. Although more research is needed, this discovery helps us begin to understand why those with psoriasis often have gastrointestinal issues, which can lead to the development of Crohn's disease.
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