Vitamin D may relieve psoriasis pain
Vitamin D may relieve psoriasis pain
Vitamin D May Help Ease Psoriasis Symptoms
Psoriasis is a chronic skin condition that affects millions of Americans. It is characterized by the build-up of skin cells, leading to dry, itchy, and sometimes painful patches. While there are emerging therapies for psoriasis, a recent study suggests that vitamin D may play a role in alleviating its symptoms.
Researchers from the Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University conducted a study analyzing 491 cases in a U.S. national health and nutrition survey. The study found a significant association between lower vitamin D levels and more severe psoriasis. Patients with higher vitamin D levels had less affected skin, while those with the most affected areas had lower average vitamin D levels.
These findings indicate that maintaining adequate levels of vitamin D may help ease psoriasis symptoms. While synthetic vitamin D creams are already being used in therapy, the study suggests that a diet rich in vitamin D or oral supplements could also be beneficial.
“If the role of vitamin D can be proved after further study, it may present a very accessible and safe addition to the treatment regimen of the millions of Americans living with psoriasis,” said Rachel Lim, a study author and MD candidate at the Warren Alpert Medical School.
However, it’s important to note that the optimal amount of vitamin D for psoriasis treatment is still unclear. Lim suggests consulting with a healthcare professional to determine safe amounts of vitamin D supplementation.
Skin pigmentation can also affect vitamin D synthesis, and psoriasis tends to be more common among individuals with darker skin tones. Lim stresses the importance of considering other factors, such as socioeconomic barriers to care, when attributing increased psoriasis severity solely to lower vitamin D levels.
Dr. Deirdre Hooper, a dermatologist not involved in the study, believes that vitamin D supplementation may be beneficial for psoriasis patients. While the study does not provide a definitive answer on whether every person with psoriasis should supplement with vitamin D, Hooper suggests considering vitamin D supplementation based on the findings.
Moreover, vitamin D not only improves psoriasis symptoms but also benefits associated health issues like diabetes and high blood pressure.
Many people turn to sunlight as a source of vitamin D, but it’s important to protect the skin from harmful UV rays to avoid skin cancer. Hooper suggests taking vitamin D supplements as the safest and most efficient way to meet the body’s needs.
While some foods like fatty fish and egg yolks contain vitamin D, it can be challenging to rely on diet alone due to varying vitamin D content in different foods.
If someone has psoriasis and hasn’t received medical care, Hooper recommends seeking the expertise of a dermatologist. Psoriasis can have a significant impact on daily life and may even interfere with sleep. Thankfully, there are several treatments available, including creams, light therapy, and oral and injectable medications.
The constant evolution of psoriasis treatments is promising for those living with the condition. As ongoing research sheds light on the role of vitamin D, it could become an accessible and safe addition to the treatment options available. The potential benefits of vitamin D supplementation extend beyond psoriasis, making it a valuable addition to overall health and well-being.
