Arthritis Psoriasis – The Treatment Options

by Kelly Limpert

Arthritis psoriasis, also known as psoriatic arthritis, is a disease with both inflammation of the joints and the skin. Psoriasis is characterized by raised, patchy areas of skin that are red and scaly. Inflammatory arthritis develops in around ten percent of the people who have psoriasis. When this occurs, arthritis psoriasis is diagnosed.

The psoriasis and arthritis usually don’t appear at the same time. In around 80% of the cases of psoriatic arthritis, the psoriasis occurs first. Arthritis happens first in around 15%. The time between the two conditions varies for each individual, but they can appear years apart.

Arthritis psoriasis typically begins when a person is between forty and sixty. Men and women are both at risk. The exact cause of arthritis psoriasis is still unknown. There is no cure but many different treatments are present.

Psoriasis can occur anywhere on the body. The scalp, knees, and elbows are three of the most common areas affected by psoriasis. Arthritis causes joints to inflame and become swollen, hot, painful, and red. The hip, knees, ankles, and wrists are some of the most affected joints with arthritis psoriasis.

A variety of medications exist to control the inflammation. Your doctor may recommend non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), corticosteroids, disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs), immuno-suppressant medications, or TNF-alpha inhibitors. For severe cases of psoriatic arthritis, immuno-supressent medications or TNF-alpha inhibitors may be prescribed. Both are effective but can cause damaging side effects.

Corticosteroids are injected into the joint or may be taken orally. They aren’t prescribed long-term and are good for mild cases of psoriatic arthritis. NSAIDs are also best for short-term usage. They may be over-the-counter such as ibuprofen or prescription. These help reduce pain and swelling. DMARDs are some of the most effective medications at limiting joint damage. They dont, however, work fast and are usually prescribed with a pain killer.

With so many medications available and so many potential side effects, it is important that you discuss the pro and cons of any treatment plan with your doctor. The right treatment will help you control your arthritis psoriasis.

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