Below are must-know information about psoriatic arthritis (PsA).
Psoriatic arthritis (PsA) is a form of arthritis that is manifested in patients with psoriasis, a skin disease characterized by red scaly skin.
Some patients experience psoriasis first before the onset of psoriatic arthritis. However, some experience joint pain in the early stages of psoriasis.
Since the symptoms of psoriatic arthritis are similar to rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis, diagnosis of the condition can be difficult. To make matters worse, the cause of psoriatic arthritis is still not known since it is an autoimmunity disorder.
Nonetheless, early diagnosis is critical to avoid the severity of the condition. Early diagnosis can also help determine the right treatment for the condition.
Here are the various psoriatic arthritis treatments and reliefs that you should know about.
16. Diet
People who suffer from psoriatic arthritis should eat a variety of foods that provide a wide range of nutrients. Additionally, they should eat regularly to overcome the fatigue that is commonly linked with the condition. Portion control is also necessary to prevent weight gain.
An anti-inflammatory diet, rich in omega-3 fatty acids can help alleviate the symptoms. This is a diet that consists of fish such as salmon and tuna. Spicing up your diet with turmeric, capsaicin, and ginger can also help ease inflammation.
15. Exercise
Exercise can help lessen stiffness, build stronger muscles, and maintain joint mobility. It can also help to maintain a healthy weight, minimizing the risk of serious health conditions that are associated with psoriatic arthritis.
Regular walking, biking, and swimming are popular exercises for patients with psoriatic arthritis. These low-impact exercises can help lessen the onset of flares. However, it’s best to get with your doctor first to see which type of exercise is best suited for your condition.
14. Quitting Smoking
Nicotine increases cytokine release in the body, which can produce inflammatory signals in the body. This induces oxidative stress, damaging cell tissues. It also causes the body to produce free radicals that can only worsen the condition. The immune system ends up working overtime.
Quitting smoking can lessen the stress on the immune system. It will alleviate the condition. Nonetheless, quitting smoking is beneficial to your health no matter what your condition is.
13. Relaxation
Relaxation has a positive emotional effect on the patient with psoriatic arthritis. For starters, it can help lessen the pain that comes with psoriatic arthritis. As the body relaxes, tight muscles are loosened and stiffness disappears.
Although it’s easier said than done, relaxation can help lessen the onset of flare-ups brought about by stress. It also lessens the chances of your skin getting worse.
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