Common high blood pressure meds may increase risk of chronic inflammatory skin disease

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Scientists from Ewha Woman’s University found a link between the use of high blood pressure mediations and the development of psoriasis, a chronic inflammatory skin disease.

The research is published in the British Journal of Clinical Pharmacology and was conducted by Hye Sun Gwak et al.

In the study, researchers reviewed data from 13 studies and found that angiotensin-converting-enzyme inhibitors, beta-blockers, calcium-channel blockers, and thiazide diuretics may increase the risk of psoriasis.

They propose several mechanisms by which blood pressure medications may affect an individual’s risk of developing skin conditions.

The findings suggest that patients who take antihypertensive drugs should be carefully monitored for psoriasis.

According to Mayo Clinic, psoriasis is a skin disease that causes red, itchy scaly patches, most commonly on the knees, elbows, trunk and scalp.

Psoriasis is a common, long-term (chronic) disease with no cure. It tends to go through cycles, flaring for a few weeks or months, then subsiding for a while or going into remission.

The disease is thought to be an immune system problem. Triggers include infections, stress and cold.

Treatment aims to remove scales and stop skin cells from growing so quickly. Topical ointments, light therapy and medication can offer relief.

If you care about blood pressure, please read studies about diet that could help reduce high blood pressure, diabetes, and this gum disease may double your risk of high blood pressure.

For more information about blood pressure, please see recent studies about high blood pressure drugs that could increase risk of this heart disease, and results showing plant-based diet may protect you from high blood pressure.

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