Scientists have discovered a possible link between medications used to treat high blood pressure and an increased risk of developing psoriasis, a chronic skin condition. While these drugs are essential for managing heart health, the findings suggest that patients taking them should be monitored for potential skin issues.
The research, led by scientists from Ewha Woman’s University in South Korea, was published in the British Journal of Clinical Pharmacology.
The team, led by Hye Sun Gwak, analyzed data from 13 studies and found that several types of blood pressure medications—ACE inhibitors, beta-blockers, calcium-channel blockers, and thiazide diuretics—may raise the likelihood of developing psoriasis.
Psoriasis is a long-term inflammatory skin condition that causes red, itchy, and scaly patches. These often appear on the knees, elbows, scalp, and trunk. According to the Mayo Clinic, psoriasis is an immune system disorder, meaning the body mistakenly attacks healthy skin cells, causing them to grow too quickly.
The disease has no cure, but it can go through cycles where symptoms flare up for weeks or months and then improve or go into remission. Triggers for flare-ups include infections, stress, and cold weather.
The exact reason why blood pressure medications might increase the risk of psoriasis is still unclear, but the researchers propose several possible explanations. These drugs may affect immune system responses or cause inflammation in the skin, making psoriasis more likely to develop.
For now, the researchers suggest that people taking these medications should be closely monitored for signs of psoriasis. If skin symptoms appear, doctors may need to adjust the treatment plan or explore alternative medications.
While there is no cure for psoriasis, treatments aim to manage symptoms by reducing inflammation and slowing the rapid growth of skin cells. Options include topical creams, light therapy, and medications.
If future research confirms a stronger link between blood pressure medications and psoriasis, it may lead to better treatment strategies for those at risk.
This study highlights the importance of understanding how common medications can affect different parts of the body. Patients with high blood pressure should not stop taking their medication but should be aware of potential skin changes and discuss any concerns with their doctor.
If you care about blood pressure, please read studies about unhealthy habits that could increase high blood pressure risk, and people with severe high blood pressure should reduce coffee intake.
For more information about blood pressure, please see recent studies that early time-restricted eating could help improve blood pressure, and results showing plant-based foods could benefit people with high blood pressure.
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