Psoriatic arthritis is a type of arthritis that develops in some people with psoriasis. Psoriasis is a skin condition that causes a buildup of skin cells that form scales and red patches.
It is an autoimmune disease, which means the immune system mistakes healthy skin cells for harmful invaders and attacks them.
Symptoms of Psoriatic Arthritis
Psoriatic arthritis affects different joints in the body and can also cause inflammation in the tendons and ligaments that connect the bones and muscles. The symptoms of psoriatic arthritis can vary in type and severity from person to person.
Some common symptoms of psoriatic arthritis include:.
- Joint pain
- Joint swelling
- Joint stiffness, especially after inactivity or after waking up in the morning
- Tenderness or pain in the heel or sole of the foot
- Fingernail or toenail changes, such as pitting or separation from the nail bed
Causes of Psoriatic Arthritis
The exact cause of psoriatic arthritis is unknown, but it is believed to be related to a combination of genetic and environmental factors.
Some people may be more likely to develop psoriatic arthritis if they have a family history of psoriasis or psoriatic arthritis. Other factors that may contribute to the development of psoriatic arthritis include:.
- Infections
- Injuries
- Stress
- Smoking
Diagnosing Psoriatic Arthritis
If you are experiencing joint pain, swelling, or stiffness, you should talk to your doctor. Your doctor will ask you about your symptoms and medical history and may perform a physical exam.
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They may also order blood tests to check for inflammation or genetic markers associated with psoriatic arthritis. Imaging tests, such as x-rays or MRI scans, may also be used to look for signs of joint damage.
Treatments for Psoriatic Arthritis
Psoriatic arthritis is a chronic condition, which means that it cannot be cured. However, there are many treatments available that can help relieve symptoms and slow the progression of joint damage. Some common treatments for psoriatic arthritis include:.
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen or naproxen, to reduce pain and inflammation
- Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs), such as methotrexate or sulfasalazine, to slow joint damage
- Biologic drugs, such as TNF inhibitors or IL-17 inhibitors, to target specific parts of the immune system and reduce inflammation
- Corticosteroid injections, to reduce inflammation in a specific joint
Other treatments for psoriatic arthritis may include physical therapy, exercise, and changes to your diet or lifestyle to reduce stress and inflammation.
Preventing Psoriatic Arthritis
There is no surefire way to prevent psoriatic arthritis, but there are some steps you can take to reduce your risk of developing the condition. These steps include:.
- Managing your psoriasis symptoms with good skincare and medical treatment
- Eating a healthy diet and getting regular exercise to reduce inflammation
- Quitting smoking
- Reducing your stress levels through relaxation techniques or counseling
Living with Psoriatic Arthritis
Psoriatic arthritis can be a challenging condition to live with, but there are things you can do to manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life. These may include:.
- Sticking to your treatment plan and taking medications as prescribed
- Getting regular exercise to keep your joints flexible and strong
- Using assistive devices, such as braces or orthotics, to support your joints
- Practicing good self-care, including getting enough sleep and managing stress levels
Conclusion
Psoriatic arthritis can be a painful and debilitating condition, but it is treatable. If you are experiencing joint pain or stiffness, talk to your doctor to determine the cause and to develop a treatment plan that is right for you.
