Psoriatic Arthritis: Causes ,Types, Symptoms & Treatments

06/27/2022

Psoriatic Arthritis is a form of Arthritis that affects people having psoriasis. Psoriasis is a condition in which an individual develops red patches on the skin with silvery scales on top. People usually develop this condition years before being diagnosed with Psoriatic Arthritis or vice versa. 

The actual cause of Psoriatic Arthritis is still unknown. However, researchers say that genetics and environmental factors can be responsible for the cause. It is also suspected that individuals suffering from an infection, weak immune system, physical trauma, and obesity play a vital role in deciding who will develop the disease. 

What are the signs and symptoms of Psoriatic Arthritis?

• Foot pain: - Foot pain is a common symptom of Psoriatic Arthritis. The pain usually occurs at points where ligaments and tendons attach to the bones. It is especially the area in the sole of the foot or at the back of your heel. 

• Swollen fingers or toes: - The condition can cause inflammation in your toes and fingers and can initiate severe pain.

• Changes in nail texture: -There might be visible changes in the texture of your nails. The nail can crumble, form dints, or separate from the nail beds. 

• Pain in the lower back: - People may develop a condition known as spondylitis. It causes swelling of the joint and arises pain.

• Eye inflammation: - Eye inflammation is also one of the common signs of Psoriatic Arthritis. It can cause blurry vision, eye pain, and redness. 

If you experience any of the above symptoms, it is mandatory to consult a doctor as early as possible before it is too late. It is essential to be self-aware about your bodily changes. This will enable you to detect a condition fast and take the earliest possible action. 

What are the treatments or the ways to reduce the symptoms of Psoriatic Arthritis?

Although there is no cure for the condition, reducing the symptoms with specific treatments will help keep the pain and severity under control. Here are some of the clinical treatments available for treating Psoriatic Arthritis: -

• Talk to a doctor: - Arthritis of any kind is a serious health disorder. It is always suitable to consult a doctor and discuss the symptoms rather than self-experimenting. 

• Medications: - Medications are the first-line treatment for any condition. Your doctor may prescribe you with Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen, aspirin, etc. as a part of the treatment process. There are topical medications as well for treating the infection on the skin. Drugs such as Celebrex, Arava, and Rheumatrex works the best for the condition. You can discuss the same with your doctor and get it prescribed. 

• Biologics: - Biologics are medicines proceeding from biological materials. These medications are created using antibodies, protein, and cells. They are highly targeted, which means that they have fewer side effects compared to other treatments. However, these drugs block a protein essential to the immune system and reduce its function. This gives you a higher risk of getting infections. 

• Healthy diet: - Whatever medications or therapies you take, it is important to keep a check on your daily diet. Include green leafy vegetables, fresh fruits, and other items that increase bone health. 

• A healthy body weight: - Maintaining the right body weight is vital for leading a healthy life. It reduces pressure on joints and reduces the risk of getting Arthritis. 

• Avoid alcohol consumption: - Excess consumption of alcohol is anyway bad for health. It impacts bone health and affects the immune system. Hence, cut down the consumption to lead a healthy life. 

• Stress Management: - Stress management is the key to stay away from Psoriatic Arthritis. It triggers psoriasis flares. Hence, techniques such as yoga, meditation, morning/evening walk, participating in sports activities, etc. 

Also Read: Tips for Managing the Pain of Psoriatic Arthritis

To conclude: -

Arthritis is an illness of the joints. It can be hereditary or due to major lifestyle disbalance. Hence, it is essential to maintain a life full of healthy habits that are likely to show long-term results. Eat right, cut down on alcohol and smoking, exercise daily, and maintain a healthy mind through yoga and meditation. These are some basics but have the power to take you a long way.