Psoriatic Arthritis

Welcome to the Psoriatic Arthritis Clinic at Emirates Hospitals Group. Our clinic offers specialized care for psoriatic arthritis, a chronic inflammatory condition that affects both the skin and joints. Our experienced team is dedicated to providing personalized treatment plans to manage symptoms, improve joint function, and enhance your overall quality of life.

What is Psoriatic Arthritis?

Psoriatic arthritis is an autoimmune disease that combines the skin condition psoriasis with joint inflammation. It can cause pain, stiffness, and swelling in the joints, as well as psoriasis plaques on the skin. The condition can vary in severity and may affect any part of the body, including the spine and fingers.

Key Symptoms of Psoriatic Arthritis

• Joint Pain and Swelling: Often affecting the fingers, toes, knees, and lower back.
• Skin Plaques: Red, scaly patches of skin typically found on the scalp, elbows, and knees.
• Stiffness: Joint stiffness, especially in the morning or after periods of inactivity.
• Nail Changes: Pitting, ridges, or discoloration of the nails.
• Enthesitis: Inflammation at the points where tendons and ligaments attach to bones, often causing heel pain.

Psoriatic Arthritis Treatments

At Emirates Hospitals Group, we offer a comprehensive range of treatments to manage psoriatic arthritis:

• Medications:
  • Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs): To reduce pain and inflammation.
  • Disease-Modifying Antirheumatic Drugs (DMARDs): Such as methotrexate to slow disease progression and manage symptoms.
  • Biologic Agents: Targeted therapies like TNF inhibitors or IL-17 inhibitors to address severe or resistant cases.
  • Topical Treatments: For skin plaques, including corticosteroid creams and topical retinoids.
• Physical Therapy:
  • Exercise Programs: Tailored to improve joint function, reduce stiffness, and enhance overall mobility.
  • Joint Protection: Techniques to minimize stress on affected joints and prevent further damage.
• Lifestyle and Self-Care:
  • Dietary Recommendations: Anti-inflammatory diets and nutritional support to help manage symptoms.
  • Stress Management: Techniques to reduce stress, which can exacerbate symptoms.

Causes of Psoriatic Arthritis

The exact cause of psoriatic arthritis is not fully understood, but several factors may contribute:

• Genetic Factors: A family history of psoriasis or psoriatic arthritis may increase the risk.
• Immune System Dysfunction: An overactive immune system attacks healthy tissues, leading to inflammation.
• Environmental Triggers: Certain infections or stressors may trigger or worsen the condition in genetically predisposed individuals

Diagnosis of Psoriatic Arthritis

Diagnosis involves a combination of:

• Medical History and Physical Examination: Review of symptoms, medical history, and physical assessment of affected joints and skin.
• Laboratory Tests: Blood tests to rule out other conditions and assess inflammation levels.
• Imaging Studies: X-rays or MRI scans to evaluate joint damage and inflammation.

Psoriatic Arthritis Diet

For tailored dietary guidance, consult with our specialists at Emirates Hospitals Group.

• Anti-Inflammatory Foods: Focus on fruits, vegetables, omega-3 fatty acids, and whole grains to help reduce inflammation.
• Lean Proteins: Choose lean meats and plant-based proteins to support overall health without adding unhealthy fats.
• Hydration: Drink plenty of water and consider green tea for its antioxidant benefits.
• Limit Inflammatory Foods: Avoid processed foods, refined carbohydrates, and sources of saturated and trans fats.
• Specific Considerations: Monitor salt intake, limit alcohol, and observe how nightshades affect your symptoms.

Psoriatic Arthritis Recovery and Management

Effective management of psoriatic arthritis includes:

• Individualized Treatment Plans: Tailored to address specific symptoms and disease severity.
• Ongoing Monitoring: Regular follow-ups to assess treatment effectiveness and adjust as needed.
• Patient Education: Information on managing symptoms, understanding the disease, and making lifestyle changes to support overall health.