Psoriasis associated arthralgia - can anyone enlighten me?

[SecondAngel]

I've been diagnosed with psoriasis associated arthralgia but a google on the Internet comes up empty on the two conditions together. Can anyone help me find out more about this. How is it different from enthesitis for example. Is there a difference between psoriasis associated arthralgia and arthralgia caused by other things? Any info at all gratefully received.

[Tugun]

Hi SecondAngel,

A difficult Question. I am not a doctor. From what I could see on the internet they are all in some way related at different stages and this also includes psoriatic arthritis. I would read as much as you can on all of it and then decide how you feel your symptoms fit into each category. There were slightly differing definitions and opinions of what constituted Arthralgia so I didn't copy the definitions here.

Either way look at ways to improve your immune system and reduce inflammation in your body.

[Ascidian]

An interesting choice of diagnosis. I haven't heard of this before.

Psoriatic arthritis would also seem like a possibility but is frequently missed because for 50% of sufferers it doesn't show up in any current blood tests. I would suggest that you keep a very careful record of your symptoms and take photos of any swollen joints etc. If things get worse, do insist on further investigations, as early medication can reduce the long-term problems.

But please don't panic. If it does turn out to be the early stages of PsA, the meds can make a massive difference. I was diagnosed with PsA nearly 3 years ago. At that point I couldn't hold a cup of tea in one hand or cut a sandwich in half (amongst other problems). Now, I feel so much better. Only some minor residual pain and stiffness in fingers and toes and I have loads more energy. I suggest you read up about PsA so that you are aware what to look out for, just in case. And it may be helpful to join the NRAS group on here, as rheumatoid arthritis has many similarities and that group has lots of active members with plenty of experience of joint problems (and there are a number of people with PsA in the group, and several who are still looking for a firm diagnosis)