The approach of a dermatologist to manage psoriatic arthritis

Psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis (PSA) are both autoimmune conditions.

Psoriasis occurs when the skin cells turn around quickly, which made days to develop and fall rather than the typical cycle of a month. Consequently, skin cells accumulate, creating plates that seem dry, inflamed and scaly.

Psoriatic arthritis occurs when the immune system attacks your cells, leading to symptoms such as joint stiffness, pain and swelling.

Everyone with psoriasis will develop the PSA, and everyone with PSA will not have skin symptoms.

Can skin connection – joint: can the treatment help the other?

Many traditional therapies for the PSA largely affect the immune system, which concerns many bodily systems, but biologicals, a new class of drugs, offer more targeted treatment.

Biologicals “refuse” the activity of various immune cells and are particularly effective in helping to manage the symptoms of PSA and psoriasis.

As a dermatologist (a doctor specializing in the treatment of skin, hair and nail conditions), I generally see PSA patients with the skin And joint symptoms. For many people, stress, illness or even an injury can trigger an autoimmune response and cause psoriasis or PSA thrusts.

Before prescribing a biological, I generally ask my patients with PSA if they have symptoms of joint pain to make sure the treatment covers both skin and joint inflammation.

Often, I coordinate with rheumatologists (doctors specializing in autoimmune diseases and other conditions affecting the musculoskeletal system) to ensure that our patients receive complete PSA care.

I generally recommend phototherapy or topical drugs for those who have symptoms of psoriasis. Although these treatments can effectively manage skin symptoms, they will not help joint pain.

Skin care tips for APS skin symptoms

There are many treatment options for people with psoriasis. Your dermatologist can help you find the best option for your needs. A good starting point, however, is to establish a skin care routine which focuses on the following elements:

• Reduction of irritants: Opt for care products that contain the National Psoriasis Foundation recognition seal.
• Exfoliant: Exfoliate dead skin with products containing chemical exfoliants such as urea or salicylic acid.
• Smart shower: Take short showers with lukewarm water to avoid removing too much oil from your skin.
• Hydrating: Apply a moisturizer immediately after the shower to provide a layer of barrier to protect your skin.

These habits will help improve the strength of your skin and overall health.

Lifestyle factors that influence PSA skin symptoms

Medicines and skin care are essential for PSA management. However, healthy lifestyles can help reduce symptoms and manage the long -term condition.

• Exercise Can help keep the loose joints, reduce pain and inflammation. To reduce joint tension, opt for low impact exercises such as swimming, cycling or yoga.
• Choice of diet and lifestyle are essential to manage the PSA. Involve whole foods. Limit food, drinks and substances that increase inflammation, such as processed foods, tobacco and alcohol.
• Stress Can be difficult to manage when you are dealing with the physical and emotional balance sheet of the PSA. Many of my patients are counting on additional treatments such as acupuncture, massage therapy and sleep priority to improve their level of stress.

Live well with PSA

The main symptoms of the PSA are physical: joint pain and stiffness. However, the PSA can deeply affect your psychosocial well-being. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential to alleviate the physical, mental and social effects of the PSA on your life.

One of the biggest challenges that many people with PSA face PSA is that PSA drugs are long -term treatments. Psoriatic arthritis is a chronic affection for which there is currently no remedy. Joint PSA lesions can continue to worsen without treatment, requiring long -term use of drugs.

It is important to remember that, even if it can sometimes want it, you are not the only person to live with the PSA. There is a community of people who know similar physical, mental and social challenges. Talking with others, including your health care provider, your physiotherapist and members of support groups such as the National Psoriasis Foundation and the Arthritis Foundation, can be a precious source of information, education and empowerment.

As Rachael Zilmich, BSN, RN said.