BEST Psoriatic Arthritis and Psoriasis Treatment

Psoriatic Arthritis and Psoriasis

Psoriatic arthritis and psoriasis are both challenging conditions, each affecting the body in different ways. Psoriatic arthritis is an autoimmune condition that attacks the joints and can cause skin issues, leading to various health problems, including bowel diseases and bone disorders. On the other hand, psoriasis primarily affects the skin, causing scaly, inflamed patches.

For effective management and treatment of these conditions, personalized care is crucial. Here at Rheumwell Rheumatology Miami,  patients can receive comprehensive care tailored to their specific needs. Our expert team of experienced Miami rheumatologists understands the complexities of psoriatic arthritis and psoriasis, offering a range of treatments from medication to therapy, ensuring each patient receives the most effective and suitable management plan. If you are looking for a Miami Psoriatic Arthritis or Psoriasis treatment doctor near you, contact our team at Rheumwell at (305) 671-3447 today.

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What are Psoriatic Arthritis and Psoriasis, and How Do They Differ?

Psoriatic arthritis is a condition where the immune system mistakenly attacks the body’s own tissues, particularly affecting the joints and skin. This autoimmune disease often presents with skin or nail changes before joint symptoms like pain and stiffness become apparent. However, the pattern can vary, with some individuals experiencing joint pain symptoms first while others may not exhibit any skin symptoms at all. 

Individuals with psoriatic arthritis have an elevated risk of developing several other health issues. These include:

  • Inflammatory bowel diseases, particularly Crohn’s disease.
  • Various lung problems. 
  • Metabolic syndrome, characterized by obesity, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol. 
  • Bone disorders such as osteopenia and osteoporosis.
  • Gout. 

Psoriasis, closely associated with psoriatic arthritis, is a chronic inflammatory disorder. Both conditions can significantly impact daily life, causing pain and discomfort. They can particularly affect tasks requiring fine motor skills. It’s important to note that the severity of psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis can vary. One might experience a severe flare-up of psoriasis while the arthritis symptoms remain mild or the other way around. This variability underscores the complexity of these conditions and the importance of tailored treatment and management strategies. 

Signs & Symptoms of Psoriatic Arthritis and Psoriasis

Psoriatic Arthritis and Psoriasis are related but distinct conditions, each with their own set of symptoms. Psoriatic Arthritis is a chronic autoimmune condition that primarily affects the joints but can also involve other systems. A few key signs and symptoms to look out for:
  • Joint pain and swelling, typically in the ankles, knees, fingers, toes, and lower back.
  • Joint stiffness, especially in the morning or after periods of inactivity.
  • Swelling of an entire finger or toe (Dactylitis), not just the joint.
  • Pain and tenderness in tendons or ligaments, often affecting the heel or bottom of the foot.
  • Skin rash with thick, reddened skin and scaly patches, characteristic of psoriasis.
  • Nail changes, such as pitting, an infected appearance, or detachment from the nail bed.
  • Fatigue.
  • Reduced range of motion in limbs and joints.
  • Eye issues, including irritation, redness, swelling, and pain.
Psoriasis is a chronic skin condition known for its recognizable and often uncomfortable symptoms. Key signs to look out for include:
  • Very dry skin.
  • Cracking and bleeding.
  • Fluid-filled blisters.
  • Intense itching.
  • Pain, tenderness, or stinging.
While Psoriatic Arthritis and Psoriasis share some similarities, they each present different challenges and symptoms. It’s important to know how to recognize these signs and consult healthcare professionals for proper diagnosis and management. It is important to understand we can diagnose and develop a personalized treatment plan for psoriatic arthritis and psoriasis that meets your specific needs. Our skilled nurses often use infusion therapy for rheumatoid arthritis in our nearby Miami office. Psoriatic Arthritis Psoriasis psoriatic arthritis treatment psoriatic arthritis rheumatologist psa arthritis

Treatments for Psoriatic Arthritis and Psoriasis 

Managing Psoriatic Arthritis involves a comprehensive approach that includes various treatments to reduce symptoms and prevent joint damage. Our team is dedicated to providing safe, reliable solutions that allow you to put your pain behind you. The following are some key treatment options used by doctors to manage this condition:

  • Medicines: Doctors use a variety of medications to treat psoriatic arthritis, including:
    • Corticosteroids: Reduce immune response to alleviate swelling and pain, available as oral pills or joint injections. 
    • Disease-modifying Antirheumatic Drugs (DMARDs): Suppresses the immune system to prevent swelling, typically taken as a pill.
    • Genetically Engineered Biologics:  Advance DMARDs targeting specific immune functions to prevent swelling, administered via injection or IV infusion. 
    • Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs): Like ibuprofen or naproxen sodium, these reduce swelling and relieve pain.
  • Topical Medicines: Creams, gels, and shampoos for psoriasis symptoms, applied directly to the skin.
  • Therapy: Physical Therapy, occupational, and massage therapies. 
  • Exercise and rest: Balanced regimen for joint health.
  • Devices to protect joints: Tools and devices to support and protect joints. 
  • Surgery: For severe cases or joint damage.

Treating Psoriasis effectively involves a range of approaches, each targeting the different aspects of the condition. The following treatments are used to manage its symptoms and progression: 

  • Topical Treatments: Applied directly to the skin.
    • Steroid creams or ointments: Reduces inflammation. 
    • Vitamin D analogues: Slows down skin cell growth
    • Calcineurin inhibitors: Reduces immune system activity to decrease inflammation. 
    • Dithranol: Slows down skin cell growth and removes scales. 
  • Phototherapy: Using light to treat the skin.
    • Ultraviolet B (UVB) phototherapy: Exposes skin to UVB light to reduce the growth of affected skin cells. 
    • Psoralen plus ultraviolet A (PUVA): Combines a drug (Psoralen) With UVA light therapy to slow down excessive skin cell growth. 
    • Combination light therapy: Uses different types of light treatments together for effectiveness. 
  • Systemic Treatments: Medications that work throughout the body.
    • Oral and injected medications: Pills or injections that treat more severe psoriasis.

Treatment of Psoriatic Arthritis and Psoriasis requires a personalized approach, utilizing a combination of medications, therapies, and lifestyle adjustments. It’s essential for patients to work closely with Miami healthcare providers to find the most effective treatment plan for their individual needs.

Contact an Experienced Miami Psoriatic Arthritis and Psoriasis Doctor Near YouPsoriatic Arthritis Psoriasis psoriatic arthritis treatment psoriatic arthritis rheumatologist psa arthritis

If you are looking for a Miami Psoriatic Arthritis or Psoriasis treatment doctor near you, contact our team at Rheumwell at (305) 671-3447 today. Psoriatic arthritis and psoriasis are related but distinct conditions. Psoriatic arthritis mainly affects the joints and can lead to skin problems, while psoriasis causes scaly, inflamed skin patches. Both conditions can vary in severity, impacting daily life and activities. Effective management includes a range of treatments, such as corticosteroids, biologics, and various topical therapies, tailored to each individual’s needs. Recognizing symptoms and seeking appropriate treatment is essential for managing these conditions. If you’re dealing with the challenges of a psoriatic arthritis or psoriasis diagnosis and seeking effective management strategies, Rheumwell Rheumatology Miami is here to help. Our dedicated team of specialists is committed to providing personalized care tailored to your unique needs. With a comprehensive range of treatment options and a focus on individualized patient care, we strive to improve your quality of life and manage your symptoms effectively. Don’t let these conditions control your life. Contact Rheumwell Rheumatology Miami today and take the first step towards a more comfortable and healthier future.

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