The Psoriatic Arthritis Association is an excellent organization that works to provide resources and information to people with this disease. In addition, they offer support and help for those affected by the condition. Whether you’re dealing with pain in your feet or lower back, knowing there is a place to turn for help and advice is essential.
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Diagnosis
An inflammatory disorder that affects the musculoskeletal system is called psoriatic arthritis (PsA). It causes pain, stiffness, and swelling in the affected joints. Although there is no cure for psoriatic arthritis, treatment can help alleviate symptoms and prevent further damage.
A psoriatic arthritis diagnosis is based on a physical examination and lab tests. The type of test you will undergo depends on the extent of your disease. A rheumatologist makes this type of diagnosis.
Your doctor will ask you about any signs of inflammation or infection, which can occur alongside psoriasis. They will also check your nails and your hands and feet. If you have a family history of psoriasis, you may have a higher risk of developing the disease. You should report any eye or gastrointestinal issues.
Other ways to diagnose psoriatic arthritis are with medical imaging. Changes in the affected joints and soft tissues can be seen using imaging techniques such as x-rays, magnetic resonance imaging, and ultrasound.
Treatment options
If you have been diagnosed with psoriatic arthritis, you may wonder what treatments can help you. Several different medications can help you, but you’ll need to find out which ones are the best for you. Several recommended drugs are nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), which can relieve pain and inflammation. In addition, there are other options, including corticosteroids and biological agents.
Psoriatic arthritis is a chronic disease that affects the skin and joints. It may cause permanent joint damage. However, with the proper treatment, you can improve your condition and avoid further damage. The goal is to relieve pain and increase the range of motion in the affected joints.
Medications that can help you manage the symptoms of psoriatic arthritis include NSAIDs, DMARDs, and biological agents. While these can provide relief, they may also increase the risk of infections, so they are not ideal for everyone.
Social support
When you have Psoriatic Arthritis (PsA), finding a psoriatic arthritis association that understands what you’re going through can be tricky. Luckily, there are resources to help you get the support you need.
Online support groups can help you connect with others who know what it’s like to deal with PSA. They’re also a great way to gain insights into the disease and find coping strategies.
In addition to online support, you can participate in local face-to-face groups. For example, the Arthritis Foundation offers peer-led local support networks.
A 2014 study found that up to 22% of people with PsA suffer from depression. These patients can benefit from counseling. The National Psoriasis Foundation offers free counseling and resources to those affected by the condition.
Many national health-based charities also offer support groups. You can also check with your healthcare provider if they recommend a particular group.
Relapses
Psoriatic arthritis is a chronic, degenerative disease that affects the joints. Many factors, including an infectious disease, a poor diet, and overexertion, can trigger it. The severity of the disease can also vary from person to person.
Psoriatic arthritis can be treated with a wide range of drugs. Treatment can reduce inflammation, pain, and joint damage. Medications can be taken orally or applied to the skin. Some patients may require surgery to correct severe psoriatic arthritis.
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, or NSAIDs, are commonly prescribed to decrease inflammation. Corticosteroids can be given as an injection or in tablet form. These drugs can have adverse effects, mainly if used for long periods.
In addition to medication, biological medicines work by targeting a specific chemical in the immune system. Physical treatments include adalimumab, etanercept, and tofacitinib. They can slow down the progress of psoriatic arthritis and can prevent flares. However, they are often prescribed for short-term use.
Side effects of DMARDs
If you have psoriatic arthritis, you may have heard about disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs). They are designed to slow down your immune system’s response to the disease. It reduces inflammation and reduces damage to the joints. It also reduces the overall amount of medication you need. However, DMARDs can have severe side effects, and you must be careful about taking them.
It is divided into two categories: traditional systemics and biologics. Standard systems are made using molecular biology. These are the types of drugs that are most commonly used to treat psoriatic arthritis.
Biologic DMARDs are made from proteins and enzymes. They are injected into the bloodstream and work to inhibit Janus kinases. Typically, these medicines take several weeks to begin working. During this time, you should avoid eating and drinking alcohol. Some symptoms of this type of treatment are nausea, diarrhea, and headaches.
Foot pain and lower back pain
A persistent inflammatory condition that affects the joints and connective tissue is psoriatic arthritis (PsA). It may be painful or disabling. The symptoms are not always obvious and can range from mild to severe. However, knowing what to look for can help you stay ahead of a flare and prevent further complications.
The body’s immune system causes inflammation. This system produces a protein called tumor necrosis factor (TNF) to help fight infection and reduce inflammation. A high TNF level can overwhelm the immune system and lead to damage to joints and other parts of the body.
Several kinds of drugs are available to treat psoriatic arthritis. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can help relieve pain and reduce swelling. Another type of drug is a biological agent, which targets crucial elements of the immune system. These agents slow the disease’s progression, reducing inflammation and joint damage.
