A common skin condition could be a sign of high cholesterol, a doctor has revealed. Dr James O’Donovan has highlighted the little-known association between the ailments.
Around one in 50 people in the UK are affected by psoriasis, a condition that causes the skin to become inflamed, scaly, and itchy. And Dr O’Donovan has warned that it could be a sign of high cholesterol and even increase the risk of heart disease, Surrey Live reports.
Although the exact link between psoriasis and high cholesterol has not been fully confirmed, a study has found that people with hypercholesterolaemia (higher levels of cholesterol) are more likely to have the skin condition.
Speaking on his YouTube channel, Dr O’Donovan said: “Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune condition that causes an inflammatory response in your body and it can affect your blood vessels causing a higher risk of heart disease.
“Now the exact link between psoriasis and higher cholesterol isn’t fully clear but if you’ve got psoriasis then you might want to consider having your cholesterol and triglyceride levels checked by your doctor.”
According to the NHS, those with psoriasis may also be at more risk of developing cardiovascular diseases. But the health service says risks of conditions like high cholesterol and diabetes can be mitigated with positive lifestyle changes.
Adapting your diet and exercising regularly can help lower your risk. The NHS says: “There is evidence that suggests that patients with psoriasis are at increased risk of heart attacks and strokes. This risk is increased if the psoriasis is severe or also involves the joints (psoriatic arthritis).
“It is not completely understood why this risk occurs in people with psoriasis but it is thought to be due to inflammation. Inflammation is when the body produces special cells to fight the psoriasis on your skin or in your joints and these cells are transported in your blood.”
Dr O’Donovan says psoriasis is not the only skin condition that can be a sign of high cholesterol. Xanthoma – waxy yellow lesions on the skin – is another sign of possible hypercholesterolaemia, along with xanthelasma – a skin growth around the eye, livedo reticularis – a reddish-blue discoloration, and corneal arcus – a ring around the iris.
Anyone who believes they have the symptoms Dr O’Donovan warns of should consult their doctor. For more information about high cholesterol, visit the NHS website.
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