Insights into Psoriatic Arthritis: Identifying the Five Distinct Categories
Dealing with Psoriatic Arthritis (PsA)? Here's What You Should Know About the Different Types, Symptoms, and Treatments
PsA is a form of arthritis that often accompanies psoriasis, but they're not the same. Psoriasis is a chronic condition that results in red, scaly skin, while PsA typically causes joint pain. A substantial proportion of psoriasis sufferers (around 20 to 30%) might develop PsA. Let’s delve into the five main types of PsA, their distinctive symptoms, and the available treatment options.
Types of Psoriatic Arthritis
- Asymmetric PsA
- Accounts for 60% of cases and impacts joints individually, not in pairs. Symptoms can occur on both sides of the body, but not necessarily in a symmetrical pattern.
- Common symptoms include fatigue, blurred vision, swollen fingers or toes, pitting or cracking nails, swollen, painful, stiff, or sore joints, and swollen or painful ligaments or tendons.
- Treatments may consist of physical therapy, oral corticosteroids, biologic drugs, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, intra-articular joint injections, or an assortment of these methods.
- Symmetric PsA
- Represents 15 to 61% of cases and affects both sides of the body simultaneously. It is more prevalent among women.
- Shows similar symptoms to asymmetric PsA, primarily affecting the smaller joints of the feet or hands.
- Treatment strategies are similar to those for asymmetric PsA, as the suitable exact treatment plan typically depends on various factors such as age, weight, overall health, and mobility.
- Smoking cigarettes may worsen PsA symptoms and potentially reduce the effectiveness of treatment.
- Distal Interphalangeal Predominant (DIP) PsA
- Approximately 10% of PsA cases involve DIP PsA. It primarily targets the DIP joints, near the tips of toes and fingers, leading to nail issues.
- Common DIP symptoms include swollen fingers or toes, ligament or tendon pain, reduced range of motion, joint stiffness in the fingers or toes, along with nail problems like pitting, crumbling, white spots, discoloration, cracking, or detachment.
- NSAIDs, corticosteroid injections, and TNF inhibitors may help treat inflammation and alleviate discomfort. DIY treatments like cold therapy, nail care, soaking, keeping hands and feet dry, and moisturizing may also offer temporary relief. However, consult a healthcare provider prior to implementing an at-home PsA remedy to ensure compatibility with prescription treatments and safety.
- Spondylitis PsA
- Representing 7 to 32% of PsA cases, this type mainly targets the joints between the spinal vertebrae.
- Spondylitis PsA can cause pain, stiffness, and swelling in the neck, back, feet, hips, arms, legs, and hands.
- Treatment includes NSAIDs, physical therapy, occupational therapy, immunosuppressants, sulfasalazine, biologic medications, and DMARDs.
- Psoriatic Arthritis Mutilans
- A severe and uncommon form (affecting about 5% of PsA patients), characterized by extreme inflammation, joint deformity, bone loss, loss of movement, and radiating pain.
- Preferred treatments for PsA mutilans involve anti-TNF inhibitors, DMARDs, biologic medications, and an aggressive approach to manage symptoms and slow disease progression.
Key Takeaways
PsA can impact individuals differently, and its treatment plans depend on distinct symptoms and factors in a person's lifestyle. Strict adherence to treatments can help manage inflammation, pain, and slow disease progression, making early diagnosis essential in averting long-term joint damage. Consult a healthcare professional for proper guidance and appropriate treatments.
In dealing with Psoriatic Arthritis (PsA), one must understand the different types, symptoms, and treatments to manage the chronic condition effectively. Asymmetric PsA, affecting 60% of patients, may cause joint pain and swelling singly, while Symmetric PsA, accounting for 15 to 61% of cases, influences both sides of the body. Distal Interphalangeal Predominant (DIP) PsA, present in about 10% of cases, targets the DIP joints, leading to nail issues and reduced mobility. For Spondylitis PsA (7 to 32% of cases), the spine and adjacent joints are the primary targets, causing pain, stiffness, and swelling. A rare form, Psoriatic Arthritis Mutilans, often characterized by extreme inflammation, joint deformity, and bone loss, affects around 5% of PsA patients.
In addition to traditional treatments, such as physical therapy, NSAIDs, and biologic drugs, alternative therapies like CBD oil may offer potential relief, as research suggests its benefits for chronic diseases, neurological disorders, and skin conditions. Alongside medication, a healthy lifestyle comprising proper skin care, fitness, and exercise, and avoiding smoking may further aid disease management. As always, it is crucial to consult a healthcare professional for personalized treatment plans and guidance.
