Info on PsA: Identifying the 5 Classifications of Psoriatic Arthritis
Let's Get to the Gist:
Psoriatic arthritis (PsA) is a bothersome relative of psoriasis, a skin condition that makes your skin red and scaly. While they're not identical twins, it's common for folks with psoriasis to develop PsA, too. Here's the lowdown on the five types, their symptoms, and potential treatments.
Joints, Skin, and Nails Oh My!
PsA typically presents as joint pain and swelling, sometimes accompanied by skin changes like redness or scaling, and nail problems like pitting or discoloration. The Moll and Wright Classification system helps identify the five main types of PsA:
- Distal Interphalangeal joint predominant (DIP): Affects the ends of fingers and toes, often associated with nail changes.
- Arthritis Mutilans: Characterized by severe joint destruction, leading to "telescoping fingers" over time.
- Symmetric Polyarthritis: Resembles rheumatoid arthritis, with symmetrical joint involvement and can affect large and small joints.
- Asymmetric Oligoarthritis: Involves fewer joints in an asymmetrical pattern, often larger joints like knees and ankles.
- Predominant Spondylitis: Affects the spine and sacroiliac joints, often presenting with back pain.
Treating PsA Symptoms
Got PsA? Don't fret. There are several treatment options to help you manage your symptoms:
- Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs): Helps control pain and inflammation.
- Disease-Modifying Antirheumatic Drugs (DMARDs): Slows down the progression of the disease.
- Biologics: Targeted therapies that reduce inflammation and prevent joint damage.
- Physical Therapy and Occupational Therapy: Helps improve joint function and manage pain.
So, there you have it. Knowing about the different types of PsA can help you get the right treatment for your unique case. Talk to your doc for personalized advice and guidance on managing your symptoms.
- Psoriatic arthritis, a relative of psoriasis, can lead to joint pain, swelling, and skin changes, including redness or scaling, while causing nail problems such as pitting or discoloration.
- According to the Moll and Wright Classification system, there are five main types of psoriatic arthritis, including Distal Interphalangeal joint predominant, Arthritis Mutilans, Symmetric Polyarthritis, Asymmetric Oligoarthritis, and Predominant Spondylitis.
- If you have been diagnosed with psoriatic arthritis, various treatment options are available to help manage your symptoms, such as Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs), Disease-Modifying Antirheumatic Drugs (DMARDs), Biologics, and a combination of Physical Therapy and Occupational Therapy.
- Psoriatic arthritis is one of the chronic diseases under the umbrella of medical-conditions, and discussing your symptoms with a healthcare professional can assist in identifying the best treatment plan for your unique case.
- Adopting a health-and-wellness routine focusing on skin care and managing psoriasis may help alleviate or prevent skin-conditions related to psoriatic arthritis for improved overall well-being.
