Psoriatic arthritis and popular treatment options
Psoriatic arthritis is a common form of arthritis that is regarded as a painful skin condition. Just like other arthritis symptoms, a person with this condition will experience pain, swelling, and inflammation in the joints. Psoriatic arthritis’ signs and symptoms include the presence of evident rash-like spots on the skin. The affected area of the skin appears darker, is flaky and quite itchy. If you see any of these signs of psoriatic arthritis related medication and long-term lifestyle changes must be considered.
Here are some treatment options that can offer some relief with these arthritis symptoms.
- Natural treatment for psoriatic arthritis
One of the best things that you can do to manage the psoriatic arthritis symptoms is to exercise the affected joints regularly. This will ease the stiffness and reduce pain. Exercising will also strengthen the muscles around the affected joints and prevent further aggravation of the condition. You would be advised to consult a physiotherapist who would suggest you exercises that will help in relieving your arthritis symptoms. These activities are ideally aimed at improving joint mobility and functionality. Apart from exercises, applying ice packs over the affected areas can relieve the itching, swelling, and inflammation. Lastly, rest is most important and so is leading a stress-free life as stress can aggravate psoriatic arthritis.
- NSAIDs
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can be prescribed in the early stages to get some relief from the arthritic pain. However, these medications are not prescribed for an extended period as they contain agents which may cause stomach irritation.
- Corticosteroids
Corticosteroids are prescribed when arthritis symptoms are quite severe. When taking these medicines, the effect on the skin has to be closely monitored as psoriasis can be impacted. Frequent use of these steroid-based drugs can have adverse side effects.
- Systematic medication
After natural remedies, this is the most common and also the most effective treatment for arthritis symptoms associated with psoriatic arthritis. A drug named Cyclosporine is prescribed, which is very effective in slowing the progression of psoriatic arthritis. However, there can be an increased risk of kidney damage. Hence, regular blood tests should be undertaken to keep a check.