The Truth About Psoriatic Arthritis

Arthritis can be extremely painful and there are different types of it that can plague people. Rheumatoid or Osteoarthritis are two conditions that a Rheumatologist will test for when someone is having a lot of joint pain and has a positive ANA test. However, there are several other types of arthritis and one of the little known types is called psoriatic arthritis.

The Symptoms of Psoriatic Arthritis

Psoriatic arthritis is associated with having psoriasis of the skin and typically affects the fingers and toes. When the disease becomes severe it can certainly affect other joints, and for those who have had back problems previously may have a hard time identifying it but it can eventually cause pain in the spine. Things to look for on the skin are going to be patches of psoriasis that could appear almost anywhere, and can have some redness and flakiness to them, eventually turning silvery in color. Tenderness of the affected area is important to identify, and typically joint swelling will occur. If you think you may have this condition, try to document any changes as they occur. Typically if someone has skin changes along with worsening of the arthritis at the same time then they two may very well be related to each other.

Getting a Diagnosis

I was personally just recently evaluated for psoriatic arthritis, but it is still unclear as to whether or not I have it. The patches of skin believed to be psoriasis on my hands seemed to dissipate with the use of a lotion called "Renew" that contains both vitamin e as well as melaleuca oil. Both the vitamin e and the melaleuca are known for being good for the skin, and work well together to eliminate dryness altogether. Mine went away within a week of using this, but I still have the joint pain and lower back pain that many experience. Dr. Edward Herzig, my Rheumatologist told me in my follow-up visit after further blood work that he still isn't sure what is going on, but that psoriatic arthritis is certainly worth considering. He did say that typically the psoriasis won't go away with any sort of topical treatment, so it still remains a mystery.

Treatment Options

Whether or not a patient has psoriasis will affect their course of treatment, so that is important to determine. Drugs known as NSAIDS (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory) are the most common form of treatment for arthritis in various forms, but some are sensitive to its effects on the stomach lining. There are some newer drugs on the market that are being used that actually block inflammatory proteins. One in particular is called the tumor necrosis factor or TNF. There is a theory that those who have these types of arthritis or inflammatory process in the body seem to develop tumors much easier than others.

Steroid injections are also an option, but the initial injection can be painful and cause worse pain for swelling at the site for a few days. Once the steroid sets in the pain usually subsides and provides much relief to the person who is suffering. Whatever the case may be, it is best to speak with your primary care physician first, then if necessary they can refer you to a specialist.

Edward J. Herzig M.D.

Internists of Fairfield

Fairfield, Oh