Widely used blood pressure meds may increase risk of inflammatory skin disease

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

In a study from Ewha Woman’s University, scientists found a link between the use of high blood pressure mediations and the development of psoriasis.

They 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.

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 high blood pressure, please read studies about Vitamin C health benefits you need to know, and herbal supplements could help reduce high blood pressure

For more information about blood pressure, please see recent studies about added sugar in your diet linked to higher blood pressure, and results showing probiotics could help reduce high blood pressure, blood sugar and cholesterol.

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

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