Understanding Psoriasis and Its Impact on Daily Life, with April Armstrong, MD, MPH

Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory skin disease that significantly impacts patients' daily lives. For those unfamiliar, psoriasis presents as red, itchy plaques or patches that can affect any part of the body, including the scalp, hands, elbows and knees. In severe cases, a person’s skin may be almost entirely covered.

The plaques themselves can cause severe discomfort, including itching, cracking and bleeding, all of which can distract patients from focusing on important aspects of their lives like work, school or family time.

In an interview with The Educated Patient, April Armstrong, MD, MPH, professor and chief of Dermatology at University of California Los Angeles (UCLA), discusses the National Psoriasis Foundation’s Health Indicator Report, which examines the health impacts of psoriasis among patients living in the United States.

“One thing we learned from this report is that, regardless of the severity, even patients with mild disease are affected by their psoriasis.”

A major factor contributing to this is social stigma. Armstrong explained that many people avoid individuals with visible psoriasis plaques because they don’t understand the condition, leading to stigmatization and isolation.

Armstrong noted that diagnosing psoriasis in people with darker skin tones can be more challenging because redness may be less apparent. This highlights the importance of educating clinicians to better recognize psoriasis in diverse populations. Additionally, patients in geographically remote areas or those with transportation issues often struggle to access dermatological care. To address these challenges, many healthcare systems are incorporating telehealth as a means to provide more accessible care.

Psoriasis is also associated with a range of comorbidities, including hypertension and obesity, especially in patients who develop the condition at a younger age or have more severe symptoms. The reason for this connection is due to the heightened inflammation present in psoriasis patients. Therefore, it’s essential for patients with psoriasis to receive comprehensive care that addresses not only their skin condition but also these related health issues. Ensuring that patients are connected to both dermatologists and primary care providers is crucial for managing the full spectrum of their health needs.

For more information, visit the National Psoriasis Foundation.