Psoriatic Arthritis, otherwise known as PsA, is a chronic inflammatory joint disease associated with skin condition, psoriasis. It affects men and women of all ages, although it’s more common among adults. Symptoms vary in severity and can include joint pain, stiffness, fatigue, swelling and deformities. In some cases, psoriatic arthritis can also manifest in the eyes and spines.

PsA is considered an autoimmune disease, meaning the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks itself. It’s believed to be caused by the combination of genetic and environmental factors. For example, some people may be genetically predisposed to psoriatic arthritis, while others may develop the condition after suffering from an unrelated virus or bacterial infection.

There is no known cure for psoriatic arthritis, but many treatments exist to help manage its symptoms. Medications like non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs) and biologics can help reduce pain and swelling. Some people may benefit from lifestyle changes, such as exercising regularly and maintaining a healthy weight. Hot and cold therapies, in addition to physiotherapy or occupational therapy, may also be used to help reduce joint pain and stiffness.

It’s important to seek medical help if you notice any potential signs of psoriatic arthritis, such as pain or swelling in the joints, fatigue, or patches of rough, red skin. Early diagnosis and treatments can help reduce the risk of permanent joint damage and protect overall quality of life.

Living with psoriatic arthritis can be challenging, but there are resources available to help. Organizations such as the National Psoriasis Foundation and Arthritis Foundation offer programs, support groups, and advocacy to connect people with psA, their healthcare providers and the resources they need. Utilizing these support networks and talking to your healthcare provider can help make living with psoriatic arthritis more manageable.