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diagnosis

Psoriatic arthritis

Diagnosis

You can think of psoriatic arthritis (PSA) as an invisible illness…that’s not always invisible. Let us explain: this autoimmune joint disease affects some people who have psoriasis, a condition characterized by red, scaly patches on your skin. Usually you develop psoriasis first, with the joint pain appearing about a decade later. That’s not always the case, though: sometimes PSA develops before the skin lesions appear, and sometimes you may never have psoriasis at all. Even if you’re not familiar with PSA specifically, the symptoms will be familiar to anyone with an autoimmune condition. They include pain, stiffness (especially in the morning), fatigue, and swelling, all especially around the joints. You might have pitted nails or redness and pain in your eyes (called uveitis). The severity of psoriasis and PSA are not connected—you may have only a few skin lesions but lots of affected joints or vice versa. Symptoms can flare and subside depending on lots of factors, like meds, injuries, and stress levels, and when it comes to psoriasis, even the weather and what you've been eating or drinking can play a role. Diagnosis is made mostly by your practitioner’s observations (a history, exam, and tests) and process of elimination. You may want to see a rheumatologist, who specializes in these disorders. Treatment is important, because it can lower your risk of permanent joint damage and other health conditions related to PSA, like heart disease. Conventional treatments include medications that reduce inflammation and swelling and biologics that target your immune system. There’s no actual cure for PSA, but self-care can help keep your flares to a minimum. Start with diet and some gentle fitness, like yoga or tai chi, which can help a lot. Eat plenty of fruits and veggies since people with autoimmune conditions tend to be deficient in some nutrients, especially antioxidants and essential fatty acids. And get your fill of omega-3s, in supplement form or from foods, especially fish and nuts. (Yeah, we're kinda steering you towards an anti-inflammatory diet here—but you probably knew that!) You might also benefit from a little extra vitamin D, and avoiding gluten, because there’s a link between PSA and celiac disease. Finally, try to get plenty of sleep, because those with PSA have a harder time getting enough, and lack of sleep definitely leads to more stress.

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Wana posts about Psoriatic arthritis

Videos about Psoriatic arthritis

Books about Psoriatic arthritis

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ARTHRITIS - The Best Thing That Ever Happened to Me.: Healing The Pain Of Psoriatic And Rheumatoid Arthritis And How Autoimmunity Can Heal Your Body And Soul

This covers Phil’s story of the onset of symptoms, the despair and pain that followed, the frustrations with the doctors’ ineffective chemical approaches, and finally finding success through diet, lifestyle and emotional balancing. There are laughs and a wealth of practical advice on subjects seldom touched upon such as ketosis, cold thermogenesis, circadian rhythms and delving into the real root causes – our myriad ways of not loving ourselves or our circumstances, which eventually manifests in disease as the body follows suit. It’s a tale of discovery, failures, successes, awakenings and ultimate surrender. It’s like no other story of recovery that you have ever read. Forewords by well known neurosurgeon Dr. Jack Kruse and naturopath Gabrielle Heyes. Cover artwork by Karen Halewood. From Amazon.com and .co.uk reviews: "I read the book thinking it was just about diet. It is so much more than that. I'm battling with type 2 diabetes and chemical addiction. This book has inspired me to tackle both as both are linked to physical and emotional problems. It's not simply a cure for arthritis, it's an antidote to the modern world. Thank you." JC. "…this book is one that should be read by all people who suffer from autoimmune diseases – no, make that ‘all diseases’, because the contents are healing as well as extraordinarily entertaining. Highly Recommended." – Grady Harp (Hall of Fame, Top 100 reviewer, Vine Voice). “Phil went through every up and down imaginable when faced with a debilitating disease and you will nod and smile in recognition. I love this book! It gave me courage to face fear and victim mentality and change toxic habits running through my life. Thanks Phil!” – Martin Nuttall. “…not only is the title completely sincere but a clear case is made that deep healing and beyond can take place if we learn to listen to what our suffering is trying to tell us. Although this book is mainly targeted towards those who suffer from arthritis, I would say the simple guidelines and concepts of healing put forth are fundamental to most or perhaps all illnesses and even useful to those in good health who are looking for a boost… Ultimately, this book goes even deeper than self-healing and for me, Phil's account of his own spiritual awakening is the true beating-heart here and was revelatory enough for me to get on skype with Phil and leech some of his wisdom! With Phil's help, my issues with chronic fatigue and anxiety are improving and I recommend getting a hold of him while he's still accessible and on the cusp of book fame!" – Gen T. “Phil's book, just like the author, is a dynamic and multifaceted gem. This book is so incredibly heartfelt and well articulated… This book is written in a very accessible and entertaining manner, while at the same time being so personable and brutally honest. The essential truths about the nature of suffering, healing, and life that Phil presents are so genuine and powerfully portrayed.” – Jessica. “…because he also adds so much of his own personal history so that you know that he has tried everything he recommends, this is what makes it so fascinating to read and something you can definitely trust.” – A.C. Johnson. “I can say this with confidence, having implemented several of Phil's recommended protocols and having seen results right from the first few days of putting them into practice. The added bonus with this book is that actually it is engaging, funny and reads like a captivating novel.” – Miss F. A. Campbell. "You won't die if you don't read this book but if you do read it, you'll certainly laugh a few times, learn new and exciting things, experience real surprise, and come away amazed by Phil's before and after photos. Laughter, learning, surprise and amazement… I can't think of a better way to spice up these next moments in your life (and, possibly, years of moments after that). Buy this book." – Cheryl Abram, author of Firing God

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The Keystone Approach: Healing Arthritis and Psoriasis by Restoring the Microbiome

We are currently witnessing a paradigm shift in the understanding of autoimmune disease. The latest scientific research reveals that the balance of bacteria in an individual's microbiome can have a profound impact on inflammation throughout the body. In those with psoriasis or autoimmune arthritis, there is often a characteristic lack of certain beneficial bacteria that normally regulate the immune system - known as "keystone" species. This is typically coupled with an excess of harmful bacteria that provoke an unwanted immune response. The Keystone Approach calms inflammation at the source by addressing both of these factors--restoring the balance of good and bad bacteria in the microbiome. Doing so can make a life-changing difference for those with autoimmune conditions, especially psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, and rheumatoid arthritis. Medical writer Rebecca Fett shares her own story of successfully addressing her long-standing psoriatic arthritis through dietary changes, carefully chosen probiotics, and other supplements. The dietary changes at the core of the Keystone Approach emphasize a lower carbohydrate Mediterranean diet, based on a vast array of scientific evidence demonstrating that this way of eating is the best way to rebalance the microbiome and calm inflammation. You will learn why the starches and saturated fats emphasized in the autoimmune paleo diet are in fact counter-productive for many with psoriasis and arthritis, along with getting detailed guidance on choosing probiotics and other supplements supported by good-quality clinical trials.

Podcasts about Psoriatic arthritis

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Dermatology Weekly: Are parabens safe? Plus, methotrexate for psoriatic arthritis, and tips for resurfacing skin of color

In this episode, Dr. Vincent DeLeo discusses consumer misconceptions about parabens with Dr. Margo Reeder and Dr. Amber Atwater. Although consumers believe parabens are associated with health risks such as breast cancer and endocrine disruption, the data have not been conclusive regarding any harmful effects in humans. Dr. Reeder and Dr. Atwater explain the use of parabens as preservatives in cosmetic products, and they discuss the American Contact Dermatitis Society’s selection of parabens as the 2019 nonallergen of the year. We also bring you the latest in dermatology news and research: 1. Surprise! Methotrexate proves effective in psoria…. 2. Positive psoriatic arthritis screens occur often …. 3. Tips for preventing complications in resurfacing …. Things you will learn in this episode: Parabens are present in a number of cosmetic and household products and medications, but the maximum concentrations permitted generally are much lower than consumers may think. Consumers associate parabens with health risks such as breast cancer and endocrine disruption, but the actual data on estrogenic effects in humans are limited. Although parabens have been found in breast cancer tissue, findings have not been directly linked to use of topical axillary personal care products containing parabens, such as deodorants. Application of these products directly after shaving also has not been shown to increase breast cancer risk. Because of their low rate of associated allergic contact dermatitis, the American Contact Dermatitis Society named parabens the nonallergen of the year for 2019. Parabens are a safe choice for preservatives given their low allergenic potential. Dermatologists can ease patient concerns about parabens by explaining that a causative role in adverse health effects has not been proven.

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