Diagnosis of Psoriatic Arthritis
Although there is no definitive test for psoriatic arthritisyour doctor may do the following to diagnose you with the condition:
- Ask if you have a family history of psoriasis or psoriatic arthritis.
- Talk to you about your symptoms and give you a physical exam. Swollen and tender jointspsoriasis skin lesionsand nail changes are significant signs.
- Examine your skin for signs of psoriasisif you have never been diagnosed with the condition.
- Take a blood sample to check for other conditionssuch as rheumatoid arthritis.
- Order imaging tests such as x-raysultrasoundsor magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)which can reveal changes in jointsenthesesor the spine.
Treatment of Psoriatic Arthritis
Treatment of psoriatic arthritis continues to improvewhich can give many people relief from symptoms and improve their quality of life. Your treatment plan depends on the pattern of symptoms and their severity. You may need to try different medications to find one that worksor use a combination of them.
Milder forms of the disease may be treated by:
- Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory and pain medicationswhich can help treat pain and swelling.
- Injections of corticosteroids, strong inflammation-fighting drugsinto the affected joints. Because they are potent drugsyour doctor will prescribe the lowest dose possible to achieve the desired benefit.
More persistent or severe disease may be treated by:
- Disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs)oral therapies that suppress the immune system on a broad level and help to decrease signs and symptoms of the disease.
- Biologic therapies and oral "targeted" therapieswhich target specific immune messages and interrupt the signalhelping to decrease or stop inflammation and prevent future damage.
Who Treats Psoriatic Arthritis?
Health care providers who treat psoriatic arthritis include:
- Rheumatologistswho specialize in arthritisincluding psoriatic arthritisand other diseases of the bonesjointsand muscles.
- Dermatologistswho specialize in conditions of the skinhairand nails.
- Physiatrists (rehabilitation specialists) who supervise exercise programs.
- Occupational therapistswho teach ways to protect jointslessen painperform daily activitiesand conserve energy.
- Physical therapistswho help to improve joint function.
- Primary health care providersincluding family doctorsinternistsand pediatricianswho treat problems as they arise and coordinate care between the different specialized health care providers.
- Dietitianswho teach about nutrition and maintaining a healthy weight.
Living With Psoriatic Arthritis
Having psoriatic arthritis can affect your daily lifebut there are ways to lessen its impact. In addition to going to your doctor regularlyhere are some things you can try to help manage your symptoms:
- If you smokework with your doctor to make a plan to quit. Some studies have shown that the more a person smokesthe worse the symptoms tend to be.
- Achieve and maintain a healthy weight. This will place less strain on your joints and may help you respond better to medications.
- Try different exercise programs and find the best one for you. Low-impact activities such as walkingcyclingswimmingyogaor tai chi may be especially helpful. Talk with your doctor before starting any exercise program.
- Protect your jointssuch as by pushing open a door with your whole body instead of just your fingers.
- Reach out for support to help cope with the emotional and mental effects of psoriatic arthritis. Consider joining a support group or seek counselingwhich can help you learn more about coping and living with the disease.
Participating in your care can help build confidence in your ability to perform daily activitiesallowing you to lead a fullactiveand independent life.