Is Psoriasis Hereditary?

Psoriasis is a skin condition which is chronic. It is autoimmune in nature and affects the skin causing red scaly patches, itching and other discomforts. It is an autoimmune disorder because the body’s immune system generates more skin cells than is necessary, in an accelerated manner. This causes accumulation on the surface of the skin. There are various reasons associated with psoriasis. One that is always contended is whether it is genetic. Understanding the genetic and environmental factors behind psoriasis is essential in knowing the likelihood of developing the condition and how it may affect future generations.

Understanding Psoriasis & Hereditary: What Causes It?

Psoriasis is an autoimmune disease. Here the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks healthy skin cells. This results in an overproduction of skin cells, thereby resulting in an accumulation on the surface of the skin. This accumulation results in thick red and scaly patches. The exact cause is yet unknown, but genetic and environmental factors have been known to play significant roles in psoriasis.

Those with a family history of psoriasis are more likely to develop the condition. However, genetics alone do not guarantee the onset of psoriasis—environmental factors such as stress, infections, and injury to the skin can also trigger flare-ups. This issue of both factors contributing to the formation of psoriasis makes it hard to manage.

Is Psoriasis Genetic or Environmental?

The Role of Genetics

Researchers have suggested that genetics do play a significant role when it comes to psoriasis. The chances of one getting psoriasis is high if there is a close kin who has it. Studies have shown that about 1 in 3 people with psoriasis have a close family member with the same condition. If one parent has psoriasis, there is about a 10-20% chance that the child will develop it. This likelihood increases if both parents are affected. Multiple genes are thought to be involved in the development of psoriasis, including those related to the immune system.

Environmental Triggers

While genetics contribute to the risk of developing psoriasis, environmental factors often act as the trigger for the disease. These factors include:

• Stress: Emotional stress can weaken the immune system, leading to psoriasis flare-ups.
• Infections: Certain infections, such as strep throat, can trigger psoriasis, particularly in children.
• Skin Injuries: Injuries like cuts, burns, or even sunburn can result in a psoriasis outbreak, known as the Koebner phenomenon.
• Lifestyle Factors: Smoking, heavy alcohol consumption, and an unhealthy diet may increase the likelihood of psoriasis flares in genetically predisposed individuals.

Psoriasis and Family History

Is Psoriasis Inherited from Parents or Grandparents?

Psoriasis has a clear hereditary component, meaning it can be passed down from parents or even grandparents. However, not everyone with a family history of psoriasis will develop the condition. If a parent or grandparent has psoriasis, there is an increased likelihood that the condition will appear in future generations, but environmental triggers often play a decisive role in whether or not someone develops symptoms.

Children with both parents affected by psoriasis have an even higher risk, but having psoriasis in the family does not guarantee that future generations will necessarily inherit the condition.

Is Psoriatic Arthritis Hereditary?

Psoriatic arthritis is a type of arthritis that occurs in some people who have psoriasis. Like psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis can also be passed down the genes. If you have a family history of psoriasis or psoriatic arthritis, your risk of developing this condition increases. About 30% of people with psoriasis go on to develop psoriatic arthritis, mostly years after the skin symptoms first appear. This condition is often painful, causing swelling, stiffness, and joint damage. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to managing symptoms and preventing joint damage.

Types of Psoriasis That May Be Hereditary

These are the various types of psoriasis that one could have gotten due to gene factors.

• Scalp Psoriasis: This affects the scalp, causing flaky, scaly patches.
• Plaque Psoriasis: This is the most common type of psoriasis where red patches form on the skin. 
• Guttate Psoriasis: This form of psoriasis mostly starts in childhood or young adulthood. It appears as small, dot-like lesions and is the second most common type. It can be triggered by respiratory infections, strep throat, or stress. Look for small, drop-shaped sores on the trunk, arms, legs, and scalp. The lesions are typically covered by a fine scale and spread rapidly.

How Dr. Batra’s Homeopathy Can Help Manage Psoriasis

Natural and Holistic Treatment

At Dr. Batra’s, our specialized homeopathic treatment for psoriasis are very well curated based on the person’s condition as well as family history and their overall lifestyle habits. These take a holistic approach as with all homeopathic treatments. The approach is to tackle the underlying cause of the disorder and then treat it. It thus looks at the overall well-being.

Personalized Homeopathic Remedies for Psoriasis

Our homeopathic doctors are experts in the field and they treat patients based on their symptoms and overall health condition. These are some of the most commonly used homeopathic medicines.

• Arsenicum Album: Ideal for individuals with dry, scaly patches that worsen at night.
• Graphites: Effective for treating thick, oozing lesions, particularly for scalp psoriasis.
• Sulphur: Frequently prescribed for those with itching, burning, and red skin that worsens in heat.

FAQs