What is psoriatic arthritis?
Psoriatic arthritis is a type of arthritis that specifically affects people with psoriasis. Psoriasis is a skin condition that causes a skin rash of red patches with silvery scales. Some people have psoriasis for many years before arthritis develops, but it is also possible for both conditions to occur simultaneously.
What are the symptoms of psoriatic arthritis?
Psoriatic arthritis symptoms can range from milk to severe and typically include the following:
- Joint pain, stiffness, and swelling
- Swollen fingers and/or toes
- Foot pain
- Lower back pain
- Eye issues including redness, pain, and blurry vision
If you are experiencing early signs of psoriatic arthritis, speak to your healthcare professional.
What causes psoriatic arthritis?
Psoriatic arthritis is a type of autoimmune disease that causes the immune system to attack the healthy cells in the body. Genetic and environmental factors likely play a role in developing psoriatic arthritis. A family history of psoriasis or psoriatic arthritis will make a person more likely to be diagnosed with the disease. Some genetic markers have been identified as causing psoriatic arthritis. If a person already has a family history of psoriatic arthritis or a genetic marker of the disease and then experiences physical trauma, such as an infection, this can cause them to develop the disease.
How do you treat psoriatic arthritis?
There is no cure for psoriatic arthritis, but certain treatment methods can help manage the disease. The goal of psoriatic arthritis treatment aims to help with controlling symptoms and prevent joint damage. If gone untreated, psoriatic arthritis can be debilitating. Doctors typically prescribe NSAIDs and DMARDs to help manage psoriatic arthritis. NSAIDs are over-the-counter pain medications that can help with pain management. DMARDs are antirheumatic drugs that can help slow the disease's progression. Physical and occupational therapy can also help joint flexibility and improve quality of life. Procedures such as steroid injections and surgery are also options for individuals who haven't found relief elsewhere.
The Power of Psoriatic Arthritis Support Groups
It’s common for people who have been given a psoriatic arthritis diagnosis to feel frightened, lonely and isolated. But you’re not alone.
The Mighty has built an extensive psoriatic arthritis support group with thousands of members sharing their stories. When you join our online community, you’ll gain access to endless resources. From the latest news and medical research to tips on managing psoriatic arthritis symptoms, our Mighty members are working together to improve the lives of those living with psoriatic arthritis.
Join The Mighty’s online psoriatic arthritis support group and find your people today.
Connections that Care
It can be difficult to connect with friends and family members who don’t understand what it’s like to live with psoriatic arthritis. When you join our psoriatic arthritis support group, you’ll have access to inspiring psoriatic arthritis patient stories from people just like you.
You can ask questions about different types of treatments in our open forum, discuss medications, and share your own psoriatic arthritis stories.When you’re a Mighty member, you become part of something much larger than yourself.
For psoriatic arthritis support any time, anywhere, join The Mighty’s psoriatic arthritis support group today.
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