WHAT IS PSORIATIC ARTHRITIS (PsA)?1,2

PsA is a type of arthritis that causes joint pain, swelling, and stiffness that usually occurs in combination with a chronic skin condition called psoriasis. Psoriasis presents as patches of irritated, inflamed red skin that are often covered with white scales.

hand

Affected Joints1,2

human-electric

WHAT CAUSES PsA?1,3,4

The specific cause of PsA is unknown although genetic and environmental factors are involved. PsA occurs when your body's immune system begins to attack healthy cells and tissue. The abnormal immune response causes inflammation in the joints and overproduction of skin cells. PsA occurs most frequently in people with psoriasis.

psa

WHO CAN GET PsA?1

Psoriasis typically begins during adolescence or young adulthood, and PsA usually occurs between the ages of 30 and 50 but both conditions may occur at any age. PsA is more common in people with psoriasis.

elbow

HOW IS IT DIAGNOSED?2

Diagnosis of PsA is made by obtaining the medical history, performing a physical examination, and taking X-rays to check for inflammation and damage of the joints. Blood tests or joint fluid tests may be done to rule out other diseases.

hand-sonar

DIETS RECOMMENDATIONS5

Some foods that can help keep inflammation under control are:

  • Fruits and vegetables
  • Foods high in fiber such as whole grains and beans
  • Foods high in omega-3 fatty acids like fatty fish, or olive oil
fish2 rice

Foods that cause inflammation should be avoided, some examples are:

  • Fatty red meats
  • Dairy
  • Refined sugars
  • Processed foods
  • Alcohol
ingredients

Overweight can increase the risk of psoriatic disease so losing weight can help making psoriasis less severe.

weight

EXERCISE RECOMMENDATIONS6

Some exercises like:

  • Walking
  • Riding an exercise bike
  • Yoga
  • Warm-water pool exercises
  • Stretching

improve health, keeps muscles strong and joints flexible.

yoga

Subject to doctor recommendation.

References: 1. Psoriatic arthritis [Internet] Genetics Home Reference. NIH US National Library of Medicine [Last accessed: Aug 21, 2020]. Available at: https://ghr.nlm.nih.gov/condition/psoriatic-arthritis | 2. Gladman DD, Ritchlin C. Patient education: Psoriatic arthritis (Beyond the Basics). [Internet] UpToDate [Last accessed: Aug 21, 2020]. Available at: www.uptodate.com |3. Psoriatic arthritis [Internet] Mayo Clinic [Last accessed: Aug 21, 2020]. Available at: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/psoriatic-arthritis/symptoms-causes/syc-20354076 | 4. Orbai A, Flynn JA. Psoriatic Arthritis and Reactive Arthritis. In: Kang S, Amagai M, Bruckner AL, Enk AH, Margolis DJ, McMichael AJ, Orringer JS. eds. Fitzpatrick's Dermatology, 9e. McGraw-Hill; Accessed August 21, 2020. https://accessmedicine.mhmedical.com/content.aspx?bookid=2570§ionid=210426794 | 5. 9 Psoriatic Arthritis Diets: Foods to Eat & Avoid [Internet] WebMD [Last accessed: Aug 21, 2020]. Available at: https://www.webmd.com/arthritis/psoriatic-arthritis/psoriatic-arthritis-and-your-diet | 6. Psoriatic arthritis Patient fact sheet [Internet] American College of Rheumatology [Last accessed: Aug 21, 2020]. Available at: https://www.rheumatology.org/I-Am-A/Patient-Caregiver/Diseases-Conditions/Psoriatic-Arthritis

Disclaimer: The information reflected is not to be construed as medical advice. The HCP should always be consulted first
(especially in regard to adopting an exercise regime).

Disclaimer: The information contained herein is provided for educational purposes only and is not intended to constitute
medical advice or replace discussions with a healthcare provider. All decisions regarding patient care must be made
with a healthcare provider, considering the unique characteristics of the patient.

Welcome to Inflammatory Conditions PIDPA App, learn more about your disease
Install this app on your device. Tap the share icon and then Add to homescreen.