Psoriasis is a long-term condition brought on by an overactive immune system and marked by skin inflammation and an increase in skin cell formation. The body creates new skin cells far more quickly than usual, but it does not shed them as quickly, which causes older skin cells to accumulate on top of one another. Red, itchy, flaky patches of skin are the end consequence.

According to a recent study by the Psoriasis Association and LEO Pharma, more than 40% of people with psoriasis regularly experience sleep disruption, with many missing up to two weeks of sleep every month. Because of this vicious cycle and increased risk of major extra health issues and mental problems, sleep deprivation can lead to flare-ups. Sadly, the study also revealed that the affected persons might not be telling their health providers about this to seek the aid and support they require.

According to the report, those with restless nights frequently get less than five hours of sleep per night, which is one hour less than parents who have three or more children. In addition, 37% of those whose psoriasis interferes with sleep feel depressed about their skin, and 53% of psoriasis patients report that their condition can make it more difficult to develop close or personal relationships.

Sleep issues are regarded as co-morbidities (co-existing) problems of psoriatic illness because they are prevalent in patients with psoriasis. However, it is unknown if sleep disorders influence the evolution of psoriatic illness or if they directly cause any particular sleep disorder. Thankfully, there are remedies for lack of sleep. Some people even take melatonin to improve their quality of sleep But, is melatonin bad for psoriasis? 

Issues contributing to lack of sleep in patients with psoriasis

Inflammation

Inflammation associated with Psoriatic diseaseis probably to blame for poor sleep quality. According to research, lack of sleep has been linked to the immune system becoming hyperactive. The inflammation that characterizes psoriasis occurs when the immune system overreacts. Additionally, the most recent research provides solid evidence that sleep disorders like insomnia significantly impact an individual’s chance of developing inflammatory diseases and even death.

There is some positive news even though this information is alarming. Your sleep can be positively affected by the psoriatic disease treatments you are taking. According to studies on these therapies, people whose psoriatic disease symptoms have improved as a result of biologic treatments had significantly better sleep quality. Because these individuals were taking TNF-inhibitor medications, a type of biologic therapy, sleep apnea was shown to be less common in patients with spondylarthritis, another inflammatory arthritis. The best shampoo for psoriasis can help ease inflammation.

Restless leg syndrome

According to evidence, some patients with psoriatic illness may also experience restless legs syndrome (RLS). RLS is a condition that affects sleep and the nervous system and results in the impulse to move the legs. RLS patients experience uncomfortable leg and, on occasion, arm or other body part feelings, along with the impulse to move to ease them. The words “uncomfortable,” “itchy,” “pins and needles,” and “creepy crawling” can be used to describe these symptoms. They get worse when a person is resting, sitting, or lying down. Many RLS patients experience nightly sleep problems that are severe enough to decrease their quality of life.

Sleep apnea

Psoriatic illness is linked to sleep apnea, a disorder when a person periodically stops breathing while asleep. Researchers don’t understand why there is a connection between psoriatic illness and sleep apnea, according to a 2016 Danish study, which also found a correlation between the two conditions.

Sleep apnea can affect breathing, mood swings, loud snoring, restless sleep, a dry or sore throat when you wake up, and other symptoms.

Solutions that can improve your sleep if you are suffering from psoriasis

Here are the best remedies you can consider to decrease your chances of not getting quality sleep when you have psoriasis. 

1. Consider creating a routine for when to go to sleep and when to wake up.
2. Keep your bedroom cold, quiet, and dark.
3. Stay away from stimulants like caffeine in the afternoon and at night.
4. You need to limit the use of electronics, including phones, machines, and TVs before bedtime.
5. Create a calming routine, perhaps including meditation or a warm bath.
6. Practice appropriate nutrition and exercise habits every day.
7. Find ways of coping with depression, such as talking to a friend or scheduling a visit with a psychiatrist.

Final thoughts

Between 2% and 3% of the population are affected by psoriasis illness. As a result of their condition, more than 40% of people with psoriasis regularly experience sleep disruption, and supporting evidence demonstrates that in the near term, sleep loss of this magnitude can result in mood disorders and an intensified stress response. Thankfully, you can get treatments for your psoriasis and practice bedtime routine mentioned above.