There are over one hundred forms of arthritis, one of which is psoriatic arthritis. This condition is chronic and can cause a wide variety of symptoms. There are different types of psoriatic arthritis that can range from mild to severe. To best manage this condition it is important to become familiar with the symptoms so that an early diagnosis can be made. In addition, understanding all of the treatment options will help with making informed decisions.
Identification
Psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis are chronic conditions that occur when the immune system mistakes parts of the self as a foreign substance and initiates an attack. When this occurs the condition is called an autoimmune disease. Psoriatic arthritis often begins as psoriasis of the skin. The overactive immune system causes the skin cells to grow out of control. This can lead to red patches on the skin that scale over with dead skin cells, and the nails can become pitted, cracked or just crumble. It most often affects the elbows, knees and scalp. For reasons not well understood, approximately 30 percent of all patients who develop psoriasis will also develop psoraitic arthritis, states the National Psoriasis Foundation. Genetics appears to play a role in this condition. While there is currently no known cause or cure for this disease, early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent disability.
Diagnosis
According to the John's Hopkins Arthritis Center, diagnosing this condition is difficult because there are no specific laboratory tests that can confirm a diagnosis. In addition, some of the symptoms of psoriatic arthritis can mimic those of other forms of arthritis. This includes general aches and pains in the joints and joint swelling, warmth, redness and stiffness. This disease typically affects the hands, feet and spine and may go through periods of flares followed by remission. A full physical exam and a review of the history of symptoms will help diagnose psoriatic arthritis. X-rays and blood tests may also be used to detect joint damage and any abnormalities in immune system activity. If psoriasis is present it is important to seek medical attention as soon as psoriatic arthritis is suspected. The earlier treatment starts, the better.
Types
The Mayo Clinic claims that there are different kinds of psoriatic arthritis. Asymmetric psoriatic arthritis, which is a milder form, is suspected when less than five joints are involved, when symptoms are present on only one side of the body or if there are symptoms in different joints on each side of the body. Symmetric psoriatic arthritis, which is a more severe form, tends to cause damage in more than five joints and both sides of the body are affected equally. Spondylitis causes symptoms primarily in the spine. The least common but most disabling form is destructive arthritis which causes severe disfigurement and disability.
Treatment
After psoriatic arthritis is diagnosed, a multidisciplinary approach is needed to fully manage the symptoms. This condition affects each patient differently so there is no one course of treatment. The Arthritis Foundation recommends treating the skin with creams, ointments and bath oils to help restore moisture. Using a humidifier at home can also help. Sunlight and light therapy can help control skin damage. Treating the skin will need to be combined with both oral and injection-form medications to manage pain and inflammation. Splints, hot and cold therapy along with adequate rest can all be used to slow down joint destruction. Rarely in severe cases, surgery may be required to repair or replace a damaged joint.
Considerations
Complementary or alternative therapies can also be tried to manage symptoms. The National Psoriasis Foundation states that therapies that seem to provide some relief include homeopathy and specific treatments that involved sulfur and nickel. Traditional Chinese Medicine topical treatments that contain aloe, apple cider vinegar, capsaicin, emu oil, evening primrose oil, oats and tea tree oil may also help. Naturopathy, which emphasizes lifestyle changes and acupuncture, has also provided relief for some patients. In addition, mind-body therapies such as yoga, tai chi and the practice of meditation can help lower stress levels, which may reduce the severity of symptoms. The goal is for the patient to play an active role in the management of this condition to help ensure the best possible outcome.
