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Psoriasis and COVID-19: Separating Fact from Fiction

The Connection Between Psoriasis and Immune Function

Psoriasis is a chronic skin condition linked to immune function, which raises concerns about its relationship with COVID-19, an autoimmune disease. However, research suggests that having psoriasis doesn’t increase your risk of getting COVID-19.

The Impact of COVID-19 on Psoriasis

While psoriasis itself doesn’t raise your risk of getting COVID-19, stress and infections can trigger psoriasis flare-ups. Researchers have recorded cases where COVID-19 infection has triggered guttate psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis. If you get COVID-19, you may experience a new or worse plaque attack.

The Risk of COVID-19 for People with Psoriasis

A collection of studies published in December 2020 found that people with psoriasis are no more likely to get COVID-19 than the general population. However, those with psoriasis who got COVID-19 reported that their skin got worse while infected.

Conditions That Raise the Risk of COVID-19

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), adults with certain health conditions are more likely to get seriously sick from COVID-19. These conditions include cancer, chronic kidney disease, chronic lung disease, dementia, diabetes, Down syndrome, heart conditions, HIV infection, weakened immune system, liver disease, obesity, pregnancy, sickle cell disease or thalassemia, and being a smoker.

Immunosuppressants and COVID-19

If you’re taking immunosuppressants to manage your psoriasis symptoms, you may wonder if they increase your risk of getting COVID-19. The National Psoriasis Foundation recommends continuing with biologic and oral meds for psoriasis, but it’s essential to discuss this with your doctor.

Psoriatic Arthritis and COVID-19

Some people with psoriatic arthritis take prescription steroids to manage their symptoms. The National Psoriasis Foundation suggests limiting steroid use during the pandemic, as they may result in more serious illness if you get COVID-19.

The Vaccine and Psoriasis

The CDC recommends that anyone without a known allergy to the vaccine’s ingredients can safely get vaccinated. Psoriasis experts also recommend getting vaccinated, but the ultimate decision is up to you.

Coronavirus and Psoriasis Symptoms

Psoriasis typically manifests as inflamed, itchy, scaly skin, while COVID-19 symptoms include dry cough, exhaustion, fever, and other possible symptoms like trouble breathing, sore throat, and loss of taste or smell.

What to Do About Exposure

If you’ve come into close contact with someone infected with COVID-19, follow the CDC’s guidelines for quarantine and testing. Reduce your risk of exposure by washing your hands, sanitizing, masking up, social distancing, and avoiding nonessential travel.

Coronavirus and Psoriasis Treatments

If you have psoriasis and get COVID-19, tell your doctor ASAP. You may need to reduce your dose or stop taking steroids or immunosuppressants until you’re virus-free. If you experience trouble breathing, chest pain, or intense pressure in your chest or abdomen, get to the hospital immediately.

The Takeaway

Having psoriasis doesn’t increase your risk of getting COVID-19, but you could experience a psoriasis flare-up if you get COVID-19. Some psoriasis meds might increase your risk of coronavirus, but don’t stop taking them without a health professional’s guidance. If you test positive for COVID-19, call your primary care physician or dermatologist ASAP to figure out how to safely treat psoriasis until you’re COVID-free.