Crohn's disease and psoriasis

Crohn's disease affects the digestive tract, while psoriasis commonly causes thickened, scaly or irritated skin. Both involve immune-system activity, so a person may have symptoms from both, although one does not automatically cause the other. Joint pain or stiffness can also occur with inflammatory conditions. Skin changes may have several explanations, including psoriasis, eczema, infection or a medicine reaction. Photographs, symptom timing and an examination can help a clinician decide whether a dermatology or gastroenterology review is needed.

Note where the rash appears, whether it itches or cracks, and whether it began after a new medicine. Record bowel symptoms separately, including [Abdominal Pain](/symptoms/abdominal-pain/) and [Diarrhoea](/symptoms/diarrhoea/). Use moisturiser for dry skin unless a clinician has advised otherwise, and avoid applying steroid creams to the face or broken skin without guidance. A [GP Consultation](/treatments/consultations-and-assessment/gp-consultation/) can coordinate care and review medicines. Do not change an inflammatory bowel treatment solely because of a rash; seek advice first.

Get prompt advice for a rapidly spreading rash, painful cracks, pus, fever, facial swelling or breathing difficulty. Seek urgent help if skin symptoms appear with severe abdominal pain, persistent vomiting, bloody stools, faintness or inability to drink. A new rash after a medicine needs timely review, especially if it involves the mouth or eyes. A [Blood Test](/treatments/diagnostics-and-screening/blood-test/) may be considered when your clinician is checking inflammation, anaemia or another explanation for your symptoms.

Ask whether the skin finding needs a specialist review, whether a medicine could be contributing, how to care for the affected area, and how bowel and skin treatment plans should be coordinated. Ask which warning signs should prompt same-day help.