Psoriatic Arthritis
Psoriatic arthritis is a type of inflammatory arthritis that affects people who have psoriasis, a chronic skin condition that causes red, scaly patches on the skin. Psoriatic arthritis can cause joint pain, stiffness, and swelling, and can affect any part of the body, including the spine, fingers, and toes. In this article, we’ll explore the symptoms, causes, and treatment options for psoriatic arthritis.
Symptoms
The symptoms of psoriatic arthritis can vary from person to person, but common symptoms include joint pain, stiffness, and swelling. People with psoriatic arthritis may also experience fatigue, nail changes, and eye problems. Symptoms may develop slowly over time or may appear suddenly. Some people with psoriatic arthritis may experience a condition called enthesitis, which is inflammation where tendons or ligaments attach to bones. This can cause pain in the heel, bottom of the foot, or back of the knee.
Causes
The exact cause of psoriatic arthritis is not known, but it is believed to be an autoimmune condition, in which the immune system attacks healthy cells and tissues in the body. Psoriatic arthritis can occur in people with psoriasis, and it is more common in people who have a family history of the condition. Certain triggers, such as infections or injuries, may also contribute to the development of psoriatic arthritis.
Treatment Options
Treatment for psoriatic arthritis focuses on managing symptoms and slowing the progression of joint damage. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen or naproxen can help reduce pain and inflammation. Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs), such as methotrexate or sulfasalazine, may be prescribed to slow the progression of joint damage. Biologic medications, such as tumor necrosis factor (TNF) inhibitors or interleukin (IL)-17 inhibitors, may also be used to target specific components of the immune system that contribute to inflammation. In addition to medications, physical therapy, exercise, and weight management can also be helpful in managing symptoms of psoriatic arthritis.
Ongoing Research
Research into psoriatic arthritis aims to understand the underlying biology of the disease, develop new treatments, and explore non-pharmacologic interventions. Studies suggest an overactive immune system causes this condition, attacking healthy tissues. Researchers are exploring drugs that target specific inflammatory pathways. Also, researchers are investigating non-pharmacologic interventions like exercise and physical therapy, which have been shown to improve joint pain and physical function.
In conclusion
Psoriatic arthritis is a type of inflammatory arthritis that affects people with psoriasis. Symptoms can include joint pain, stiffness, and swelling, as well as fatigue, nail changes, and eye problems. While the exact cause of psoriatic arthritis is not known, it is believed to be an autoimmune condition. Treatment options include medications, physical therapy, exercise, and weight management, and the goal is to manage symptoms and slow the progression of joint damage. If you are experiencing symptoms of psoriatic arthritis, it’s important to talk to your healthcare provider to discuss the best treatment plan for you.
Participate in a Clinical Trial
If you or someone you know is interested in participating in a clinical trial related to psoriatic arthritis, there may be options available in your area. Clinical trials are research studies that evaluate new treatments, therapies, or interventions for a particular condition. By participating in a clinical trial, individuals can help advance our understanding of psoriatic arthritis and potentially benefit from new treatment options.
Enrolling in a clinical trial involves meeting certain eligibility criteria and following a study protocol that outlines the procedures, treatments, and assessments involved. Participants may receive compensation for their time and travel expenses. If you are interested in learning more about clinical trials for psoriatic arthritis or other conditions, click here to search for active trials in your area. Also review the Frequently Asked Question section by clicking here. The FAQ answers many questions relating to how to enroll, what should be expected and many other areas of interest.