Understanding Psoriasis, Low Cortisol, Aldosterone, Addison's Disease, Cystic Fibrosis, and Salt Cravings

By SWA

Why Has Progress in Psoriasis Treatment Been Slow?

There is a concerning trend among some medical professionals who adopt a somewhat superficial attitude toward the dangers of excessive salt intake, often citing its harms without fully grasping the complex clinical implications or delving deeply into the underlying science. This lack of nuanced understanding can be particularly frustrating for patients dealing with chronic conditions.

As someone who has lived with genetically inherited psoriasis and Addison's Disease for 64 years, I am deeply frustrated by the slow pace of scientific progress in treating these conditions. It's disheartening to see how little has changed since psoriasis was first formally described. In 1809, English physician Robert Willan (1757–1812) provided one of the earliest diagnostic descriptions of psoriasis, categorizing its various forms, including guttate, scalp, and palmar psoriasis. At that time, he referred to it as "lepra vulgaris," a term that underscores how far medical understanding has evolved. However, despite these advancements in diagnosis, we still have a long way to go in developing truly effective treatments.

Salt Cravings: A Common Experience with Complex Causes

Craving salt occasionally is normal and can happen due to factors like boredom, stress, or dehydration. However, frequent or intense salt cravings may indicate an underlying health issue, such as a medication side effect or a condition like Addison's disease. Learn more about salt cravings.

The Role of Sodium in the Body

Sodium is an essential nutrient required in small amounts to maintain fluid balance and support muscle and nerve function. Despite its importance, most diets provide more than enough sodium, making a deficiency rare under normal circumstances. Why we need salt.

Celtic salt is a mineral-rich sea salt that contains higher amounts of essential minerals such as zinc, iron, phosphorus, manganese, magnesium, potassium, iodine, and many others compared to regular table salt. Magnesium, in particular, plays a crucial role in cellular hydration by drawing water into cells, promoting better water retention at the cellular level. This makes it an effective way to hydrate the body more efficiently, as it helps retain water in the cells rather than losing it through excessive urination.

For more information on the benefits of Celtic salt, you can refer to this article: Celtic Sea Salt Nutritional Benefits.

Symptoms of Low Sodium/Magnesium Levels

When sodium levels in the body drop too low, it can lead to symptoms like muscle cramps, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, and in severe cases, shock or coma. Severe salt loss is unlikely, but recognizing the symptoms early is crucial. Recognize the signs of low sodium.

What Causes Salt Cravings?

Salt cravings can indicate a sodium deficiency or an underlying medical condition, such as Addison's disease. This rare condition is characterized by insufficient production of hormones, including cortisol and aldosterone, which are crucial for maintaining salt and fluid balance in the body. Explore causes of salt cravings.

Addison's Disease and Hormonal Imbalances

Addison's disease is an autoimmune condition that damages the adrenal glands, resulting in low cortisol and aldosterone levels. These hormones are vital for regulating the body's salt balance, and a deficiency can lead to intense salt cravings. Understand Addison's disease and salt cravings.

In some cases, individuals with Addison's disease may benefit from a high-sodium diet to compensate for the body's inability to retain salt. A healthcare provider can offer guidance on the appropriate amount of sodium intake. Managing diet with Addison's disease.

The Connection Between Psoriasis and Addison's Disease

There is a documented case where a patient with widespread psoriasis saw significant improvement after being diagnosed with Addison's disease and receiving cortisol replacement therapy. This suggests a potential link between cortisol levels and psoriasis symptoms. Case study on psoriasis and Addison's disease.

Hashimoto's Disease and Salt Cravings

Hashimoto's disease, an autoimmune thyroid disorder, can cause symptoms that overlap with electrolyte imbalances and adrenal insufficiency, including salt cravings. Fatigue, even after a full night's sleep, is another common symptom of these conditions. Does Hashimoto's make you crave salt?.

Bartter Syndrome and Cystic Fibrosis: Rare Causes of Salt Loss

In rare conditions like Bartter syndrome and cystic fibrosis, the body cannot properly reabsorb sodium, leading to chronic sodium loss. Individuals with these conditions often experience low sodium levels because any sodium they consume is lost through urine. Learn about Bartter syndrome and cystic fibrosis.

Can Salt Therapy Help with Psoriasis?

Salt therapy, also known as halotherapy, has been found to soothe the itching and burning associated with psoriasis. Regular sessions have led to improvements in skin appearance and relief from symptoms for many individuals. Explore the benefits of salt therapy.

Stress, Low Cortisol, and Psoriasis

Chronic stress can lead to consistently low cortisol levels, which may increase the risk of psoriasis flare-ups. Managing stress and monitoring cortisol levels can be essential in managing psoriasis. The impact of stress on cortisol and psoriasis.

Hyponatremia: The Dangers of Low Salt Levels

Hyponatremia occurs when sodium levels in the blood fall below the normal range, leading to symptoms like nausea, vomiting, and dizziness. In severe cases, it can result in life-threatening conditions such as shock or coma. Understanding hyponatremia.

Saltwater and Psoriasis

While excessive salt intake can be harmful, saltwater from the ocean has been shown to benefit those with psoriasis. Saltwater baths, a treatment known as balneotherapy, are known to soothe psoriasis symptoms and improve skin health. Benefits of saltwater for psoriasis.

Hormons:

Psoriasis patients having high ACTH, IL-17 and stress scores had lower levels of cortisol, indicating a dysregulated HPA axis with the pro-inflammatory state. This might lead to exacerbation of psoriatic flares, which needs investigation in further prospective studies.
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0022399923002076

What causes salty urine?
A higher than normal urine sodium level may be due to:
Certain medicines, such as water pills (diuretics) Low function of the adrenal glands. Inflammation of the kidney that results in salt loss (salt-losing nephropathy)

By understanding the connections between salt cravings, hormonal imbalances, and conditions like Addison's disease, Hashimoto's disease, and psoriasis, you can better manage your health and recognize when it's time to seek medical advice.

References: 

  1. Kirsner, R. S., Federman, D. G., & Robison, D. (1998). "The Effect of a Natural Mineral-Rich Mud Pack and Bath on Psoriasis." Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, 38(4), 521-525.

    • This study examines the benefits of mineral-rich mud packs and saltwater baths for psoriasis treatment.

  2. Proksch, E., Nissen, H. P., Bremgartner, M., & Urquhart, C. (2005). "Bathing in a Magnesium-Rich Dead Sea Salt Solution Improves Skin Barrier Function, Enhances Skin Hydration, and Reduces Inflammation in Atopic Dry Skin." International Journal of Dermatology, 44(2), 151-157.

    • This paper discusses how magnesium-rich Dead Sea salt baths improve skin barrier function and reduce inflammation, which is relevant to psoriasis management.

  3. Naldi, L., & Griffiths, C. E. M. (2005). "Traditional Therapies in the Management of Moderate to Severe Chronic Plaque Psoriasis: An Assessment of the Benefits and Risks." British Journal of Dermatology, 152(4), 597-615.

    • This review provides an overview of traditional therapies for psoriasis, including balneotherapy, and their benefits and risks.

  4. Schmidt, M. J., Steyerberg, E. W., & van der Velden, J. (2001). "Effect of Swimming in the Dead Sea on Skin Lesions and Parameters of Salt Balance in Psoriasis." British Journal of Dermatology, 144(5), 969-975.

    • This study investigates the effects of Dead Sea swimming on psoriasis lesions and salt balance in the body.

  5. Meffert, H., Gaube, W., & Lohmann, H. (1991). "Long-Term Results of Climate Therapy for Psoriasis Vulgaris in the Dead Sea Area." Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, 24(2 Pt 1), 243-248.

    • This research examines the long-term benefits of climate therapy, including saltwater baths, for psoriasis patients.

  6. Boehncke, W. H., & Schön, M. P. (2015). "Psoriasis." The Lancet, 386(9997), 983-994.

    • A comprehensive review of psoriasis, including discussions on the pathophysiology, potential triggers, and treatment options.

  7. Grimstad, O., Sawanobori, Y., Vestergaard, C., Yamanaka, K., & Usui, K. (2012). "Inflammatory Pathways and Biomarkers in Psoriasis." Journal of Dermatological Science, 66(1), 1-7.

    • This article provides insight into the inflammatory pathways involved in psoriasis, including the role of cytokines and nitric oxide.

  8. Nakamura, Y., Tajima, S., Aoki, T., & Ohguchi, T. (1997). "Effects of Cortisol on Psoriatic Epidermis: Decreased Proliferation and Increased Differentiation." Journal of Investigative Dermatology, 108(1), 51-55.

    • This paper explores the impact of cortisol on psoriasis, focusing on epidermal proliferation and differentiation.

  9. Schwartz, M. W., & Seeley, R. J. (1997). "Neuroendocrine Responses to Starvation and Weight Loss." New England Journal of Medicine, 336(25), 1802-1811.

    • While not specific to psoriasis, this article discusses the broader context of hormonal responses, including cortisol and aldosterone, which could be relevant to salt balance in psoriasis.

  10. Guggino, W. B., & Stanton, B. A. (2006). "New Insights into Cystic Fibrosis: Molecular Switches That Regulate CFTR." Nature Reviews Molecular Cell Biology, 7(5), 426-436.

    • This review covers the molecular mechanisms underlying cystic fibrosis, particularly salt transport, which may provide insights into similar processes in psoriasis.

Please note: The content on this blog is for informational purposes only and is not intended to provide medical diagnoses or treatment. The information shared is based on frequently asked questions and is sourced from reputable scientific studies. 

© 2000-2025 Sieglinde W. Alexander. All writings by Sieglinde W. Alexander have a fife year copy right. Library of Congress Card Number: LCN 00-192742

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