May is Psoriatic Arthritis Action Month
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During the month of May the National Psoriasis Foundation (NPF) leads an event to support and recognize and support people affected by psoriatic arthritis (PsA). Over 8 million people in the U.S. have psoriasis. Nearly a third of them will develop psoriatic arthritis.
What is Psoriatic Arthritis?
Psoriatic arthritis is a type of arthritis that affects some people who have psoriasis, a skin condition characterized by red, scaly patches. About 1 in 3 people with psoriasis will develop psoriatic arthritis. Unfortunately, this diagnosis can significantly impact ones quality of life. PsA is a chronic inflammatory joint disease, it’s considered an autoimmune disease, which means the body's immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissue, in this case, both the skin and the joints.
Psoriatic arthritis can affect any joint in the body and often presents with symptoms such as joint pain, stiffness, and swelling. Additionally, individuals may experience skin symptoms such as red, inflamed patches of skin with silvery scales, which are characteristic of psoriasis. Other symptoms can include fatigue, nail changes, and even eye inflammation.
Common Symptoms of Psoriatic Arthritis
Here are seven common PsA symptoms and signs:
Fatigue
Enthesitis (a painful condition that occurs when the entheses, the points where ligaments or tendons attach to bones, become inflamed.)
Joint Swelling and/or pain
Reduced range of motion
Morning stiffness and tiredness
Nail pitting (notches or depression on the nail plate) or separation from the nail bed
Eye inflammation (including redness or pain in the eye)
It’s important to note, there isn’t a direct connection between psoriasis severity and PsA severity. You may have very few skin lesions and have many joints affected by arthritis.
Treatment for Psoriatic Arthritis
Managing psoriatic arthritis typically involves a combination of medication, lifestyle changes, and sometimes surgery. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are often prescribed to help reduce pain and inflammation. Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) are another class of medications used to slow the progression of joint damage. Biologic drugs, which target specific parts of the immune system, have also shown to be effective in treating psoriatic arthritis. In addition to medication, physical therapy, exercise, and maintaining a healthy weight can help improve joint function and overall well-being.
Living with a chronic condition like psoriatic arthritis can take a toll on both physical and mental health. Though there is no cure, a growing range of treatments are available to help stop the disease progression, lessen pain, protect joints, and preserve range of motion. If you have or suspect you may have PsA, it is extremely important to work with a rheumatologist (a doctor who specializes in how the immune system affects joints, bones, and muscles) to find the right treatment plan. PsA can cause permanent disability and chronic pain and fatigue, making it essential for individuals to find coping strategies that work for them. This may include joining support groups, practicing stress-reduction techniques such as mindfulness or yoga, and maintaining open communication with healthcare providers. Building a strong support network of friends and family can also provide invaluable emotional support.
Self-care also plays a crucial role in managing psoriatic arthritis. This includes prioritizing rest when needed, eating a balanced diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods, and finding activities that bring joy and relaxation. It’s also important for individuals to advocate for themselves and their healthcare needs, whether that means seeking a second opinion, exploring alternative therapies, or asking for accommodations at work or school.
How to show your support
It is the mission of the National Psoriasis Foundation to drive efforts to cure psoriatic disease and improve the lives of those effected. NPF is the leading nonprofit supporter of psoriatic disease research. All efforts funded by the NPF lead to key discoveries to pave the way for better treatment options and finding a cure. During PsA Action Month, all gifts to the NPF up to 50,000 will be matched for twice the impact!
