Psoriatic arthritis is a chronic autoimmune condition that affects many people worldwide. Symptoms can be debilitating and greatly affect your quality of life, so it’s important to know how to manage it.
What Is Psoriatic Arthritis?
Psoriatic arthritis is an inflammatory type of arthritis that is often linked to psoriasis, a skin condition characterized by red, scaly patches. It typically affects people who already have psoriasis, but it can also occur in individuals without prior skin disease.
The exact cause of psoriatic arthritis is unknown, but it’s thought to involve the immune system attacking healthy cells and tissues, leading to inflammation in the joints. There are other risk factors, so it’s important to keep learning to find out if you’re at risk of developing the disease.
Common Signs of Psoriatic Arthritis
The symptoms of psoriatic arthritis can vary in severity and can affect any part of the body, including fingertips and spine. Common signs include joint pain and stiffness, swelling and redness in the joints, reduced range of motion, and fatigue.
The skin lesions of psoriasis often precede joint problems. In some cases, people may experience nail changes, such as pitting or separation from the nail bed.1 It’s important to recognize these signs early, as prompt treatment can help control symptoms and prevent joint damage.
Causes of Psoriatic Arthritis
While the exact cause of psoriatic arthritis remains unknown, it’s widely believed to result from a combination of genetic, environmental, and immune system factors. Psoriatic arthritis occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy cells and tissues, leading to joint inflammation and skin lesions. This abnormal immune response is thought to be influenced by genetics, as individuals with a family history of psoriasis or arthritis are more likely to develop the condition.
Environmental triggers, such as infections or physical trauma, may also play a role in activating psoriatic arthritis in susceptible individuals. Other risk factors include obesity, which increases the strain on joints, and lifestyle factors like smoking. Understanding these potential causes can help individuals manage risk and seek timely medical intervention if symptoms arise.
Diagnosis of Psoriatic Arthritis
Diagnosing psoriatic arthritis requires a thorough evaluation by a healthcare professional, typically a rheumatologist. The process often begins with a detailed medical history and physical examination, focusing on joint pain, stiffness, and skin changes. Blood tests may be conducted to rule out other types of arthritis, such as rheumatoid arthritis, as well as to check for elevated levels of inflammatory markers.
Imaging tests like X-rays, MRIs, or ultrasounds are also used to detect joint damage and inflammation. In some cases, doctors may take a biopsy of skin lesions or perform tests to assess nail changes, which are often associated with psoriatic arthritis. Early diagnosis is crucial for effective treatment, as it helps prevent joint damage and long-term complications. With prompt diagnosis, a personalized treatment plan can be developed to manage symptoms and improve quality of life.
Treating Psoriatic Arthritis: What Are My Options?
There is no cure for psoriatic arthritis, but treatment can relieve pain, reduce swelling, and help keep joints working properly. Treatment options typically include nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to relieve pain and reduce inflammation, disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) to slow the progression of the disease, and biologic agents that target specific parts of the immune system.2
Lifestyle changes, such as maintaining a healthy weight, regular exercise, and a balanced diet, can also help manage symptoms. Researching your options and working with a rheumatologist is key to finding the right treatment plan.
Learn More About Psoriatic Arthritis Today
Psoriatic arthritis can be a challenging condition, but understanding its signs and treatment options is vital for effective management. If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of psoriatic arthritis, it’s important to seek medical advice for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. Learn more to gain deeper insights into managing psoriatic arthritis and improving your overall health.