I had a stroke 15 years ago and I’ve got scalp psoriasis now, out of the blue. It’s supposed to go away in a few months and it’s not contagious, but it can come back, sometimes with a greater vengeance. I have thick hair and about a month ago, on one side of my head framing my face, I felt loose hairs and it started getting sparse. Dr. A. confirmed and gave me a lotion–2 weeks on twice a day, 2 weeks off. Well, here’s another one–post-stroke stuff. Stress is the main cause. How can anybody who had a stroke, or a TBI, not feel the pangs of stress.
Psoriasis is an autoimmune condition that causes inflammation, affecting the skin, immune system, and nervous system. Research suggests a link between psoriasis and brain injury, especially for people who have experienced a traumatic brain injury (TBI) or stroke. Well, how?
Both brain injuries, TBI or stroke, trigger chronic inflammation, and one of many results is psoriasis. A severe head injury or stroke can cause immune system dysregulation, making some people more likely to develop new autoimmune disorders like psoriasis.
After a brain injury, the body releases inflammatory proteins called cytokines (commonly called proteins) that can worsen autoimmune conditions like psoriasis. It can flare up under stress, and brain injuries often cause emotional and mental stress like anxiety or depression. Also, brain damage can agitate the autonomic nervous system, which can negatively affect immune regulation and skin health.
People with brain injuries sometimes have circulatory problems which can affect skin healing leading to psoriasis symptoms. If the injury-affected areas that control blood pressure or circulation worsens, psoriasis flares may be advanced.
Psoriasis may also worsen after a TBI, especially if there is high stress, poor sleep, and increased inflammation. Neurological psoriasis (rare) occurs when psoriasis affects the scalp and brain membranes, causing symptoms similar to brain fog, fatigue, and cognitive issues.
Always get a trusted physician’s approval (did I just say that?) on how we manage psoriasis after brain injury.
Things to Take:
Vitamin D (Sunlight, Supplements) for its supports of balance
Omega-3s fatty fish, chia seeds, flaxseeds for its reduction of skin & brain inflammation
Turmeric for its lowering inflammatory cytokines
Probiotics and gut health for its helping regulate the immune response
Stress Reduction and Nervous System Support:
Good sleep habits for its helping both psoriasis and brain function
Deep breathing and meditation/mindfulness for its lowering stress & inflammation
Gentle exercise like walking for its improving circulation and skin health
Improve Blood Flow and Healing:
Hydration and herbal teas for its boosting circulation
Massage for its stimulating lymphatic drainage, meaning that (from the Cleveland Clinic) “a healthcare provider will massage your armpits, neck and, with your consent, your groin area. Next, they’ll coax excess lymph fluid from your swollen tissues toward your lymph nodes, where the lymph can reabsorb.”
Psoriasis-Safe Skin Care:
Use fragrance-free, gentle moisturizers (like aloe vera or coconut oil)
Avoid hot showers & harsh soaps; they can trigger flares
I’m betting there are post-stroke worries to come! AARRGGHH! Stay tuned!
Hi
If this is a fact, i am surprised. I had a stroke 13 years ago and recently i have seen the bald or white patches in my head .That it has got some thing to with Stroke leaves me bafflled .
Regds
GN