Psoriatic arthritis can cause pain and fatigue; some people develop other health conditions like anxiety and depression. Taking steps to manage these health concerns can help improve your quality of life.
Support groups gather people in similar challenging situations to provide support and advice. A mental health professional often leads these.
Diet
People with psoriatic arthritis need to focus on eating healthy foods. They should avoid fatty red meats, dairy, sugar, and alcohol. Instead, they should consume fish rich in omega-3 fatty acids (such as salmon), green leafy vegetables, and fruit.
It is also essential to maintain a healthy weight since excess body weight puts additional strain on joints. It’s a good idea to consult a dietitian to help choose the proper diet.
Regular exercise can improve pain and stiffness, which is a great way to reduce stress levels. Some practical activities for psoriatic arthritis include swimming, walking, and yoga.
NSAIDs, or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, can decrease pain and inflammation in some people with psoriatic arthritis. But these medications can also have side effects, so they should be taken only as directed by a doctor.
Some people with psoriatic arthritis develop pain in the areas where tendons and ligaments attach to bones. This is called enthesitis, and it can occur in any joint. This pain is often more severe than other types of psoriatic arthritis pain.
If psoriatic arthritis causes fatigue, you must pace your activity and rest. You can also use gadgets to make it easier to do everyday tasks – for example, jar openers, levers, and push doors open with the whole body rather than just the hands.
Social support
PsA can take a toll on emotional health, and it’s common for people to feel isolated or misunderstood, especially when their doctor doesn’t fully understand the disease. It can help to talk to others who have psoriatic arthritis. This can include family, friends, or a psoriatic arthritis support group. Your doctor can recommend local groups, or you can look for groups online. These groups can offer comfort, improve your understanding of the condition, and provide helpful feedback about treatment options. Talking to others who have psA makes you feel less alone and can reduce stress.
Anxiety and depression can be associated with Psa, and you may experience them with other symptoms. This is common, and talking with a mental health professional who can teach you coping strategies can be helpful.
In addition, swollen joints and achy bones can tire you and discourage you from participating in activities you enjoy. It’s essential to make time for what you want and not let psA stop you from doing what’s important to you.
Exercise
The more physically active people are, the less likely they are to experience pain and fatigue. A regular exercise program is vital for most adults and is even more essential if you have arthritis. Exercise can maintain your joints healthy and flexible, but you should consult a physical therapist or other healthcare provider before beginning any new activity. They can safely lead you and assist you in determining the appropriate level of difficulty.
Furthermore, maintaining a healthy weight reduces the strain on your joints and can improve the effectiveness of your drugs. Some psoriatic arthritis treatments are less effective in obese patients.
A good diet is also helpful in keeping your joints healthy. Try to eat high-quality foods and limit sugar and processed foods, which can contribute to inflammation. Drink plenty of water throughout the day. A warm shower or bath before exercise can help loosen the muscles if you have joint pain.
Getting enough sleep and practicing stress management techniques to help you relax is also a good idea. Getting up and going to bed simultaneously each night can help you sleep better. Relaxation exercises like yoga or tai chi can also help reduce anxiety and improve flexibility.
Stress management
Stress is a normal part of daily life, but it can be harder to deal with when you have PsA. It can be caused by frustration over symptom flares, concerns about how your illness might affect loved ones or embarrassment about skin plaques. These feelings can increase your pain and fatigue and lead to unhealthy behaviors, such as poor sleep and overeating.
It’s also essential to find support in your community and online. Your doctor may be able to recommend local support groups. And online resources can help you connect with others with a similar condition and learn more about it.
A common problem with psoriatic arthritis is enthesitis, which causes the joints to become swollen and tender. It most commonly occurs in the feet but can also happen in the knees, hips, elbows, and chest. This condition can make walking, standing, or moving around hard. It’s also common to have swollen fingers or toes, often called sausage digits.
It’s important to talk openly with loved ones about the challenges of living with psoriatic arthritis. They may not fully understand the emotional impact, but they can be a source of strength and encouragement when needed. You can also bring them to your doctor appointments so they can hear about your symptoms and see the effects of your disease on your body.
