What to Know About Psoriatic Arthritis and How It’s Treated Today

What are the early signs of psoriatic arthritis?

Recognising the early signs of psoriatic arthritis is crucial for timely intervention and effective management. Some common early indicators include:

1. Joint pain and stiffness: This often affects the fingers, toes, wrists, lower back, and ankles.

2. Swollen “sausage-like” fingers or toes: Known as dactylitis, this is a characteristic feature of psoriatic arthritis.

3. Nail changes: Look for pitting, ridging, or separation of the nail from the nail bed.

4. Fatigue: Persistent tiredness that doesn’t improve with rest.

5. Skin symptoms: Red, scaly patches typical of psoriasis may appear before or alongside joint symptoms.

If you experience any of these symptoms, especially in combination with existing psoriasis, it’s important to consult a healthcare professional for proper evaluation.

What treatment options are available in the UK?

In the UK, a range of treatment options is available for managing psoriatic arthritis. The choice of treatment depends on the severity of symptoms and individual patient factors. Common approaches include:

1. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): These help reduce pain and inflammation in mild cases.

2. Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs): Medications like methotrexate or sulfasalazine can slow disease progression.

3. Biologic therapies: These target specific parts of the immune system and can be highly effective for moderate to severe cases.

4. Corticosteroid injections: Used for temporary relief in affected joints.

5. Physiotherapy and occupational therapy: These can help maintain joint function and improve daily activities.

6. Surgery: In severe cases, joint replacement surgery may be considered.

Treatment plans are typically personalised and may involve a combination of these approaches. Regular follow-ups with rheumatologists and dermatologists are essential for optimal management.

How can lifestyle changes reduce flare-ups?

While medical treatments are crucial, lifestyle modifications can play a significant role in managing psoriatic arthritis and reducing flare-ups. Some beneficial changes include:

1. Regular exercise: Low-impact activities like swimming or cycling can help maintain joint flexibility and muscle strength.

2. Maintaining a healthy weight: Excess weight puts additional stress on joints, so weight management is important.

3. Stress reduction: Techniques such as meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises can help manage stress, which is known to trigger flare-ups.

4. Balanced diet: While no specific diet cures psoriatic arthritis, some people find relief by avoiding certain foods. Consult a nutritionist for personalised advice.

5. Quitting smoking: Smoking can worsen symptoms and reduce the effectiveness of some medications.

6. Protecting joints: Using assistive devices and modifying daily activities can help reduce strain on affected joints.

Implementing these changes alongside medical treatment can significantly improve quality of life for those with psoriatic arthritis.

What are the differences between psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis?

While psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis are related conditions, they have distinct characteristics:

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Aspect	Psoriasis	Psoriatic Arthritis
Primary Affected Area	Skin	Joints and skin
Main Symptoms	Red, scaly patches on skin	Joint pain, stiffness, and swelling; may include skin symptoms
Onset	Can occur at any age	Usually develops in people with existing psoriasis, typically between ages 30-50
Prevalence	Affects about 2% of UK population	Occurs in up to 30% of people with psoriasis
Impact on Daily Life	Can affect self-esteem and social interactions	Can limit mobility and affect ability to perform daily tasks
Treatment Focus	Skin-oriented treatments (topicals, phototherapy)	Joint-focused treatments (DMARDs, biologics) in addition to skin treatments

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It’s important to note that not everyone with psoriasis will develop psoriatic arthritis, but having psoriasis increases the risk. Early diagnosis and treatment of psoriatic arthritis can help prevent joint damage and improve long-term outcomes.

In conclusion, psoriatic arthritis is a complex condition that requires a multifaceted approach to management. By recognising early signs, exploring available treatment options, and making supportive lifestyle changes, individuals with psoriatic arthritis can effectively manage their symptoms and maintain a good quality of life. Regular medical care and a proactive approach to self-management are key to living well with this condition.

This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Please consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalized guidance and treatment.