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Understanding Psoriatic Arthritis Flares: Identifying Triggers and Managing Symptoms

When you’re living with psoriatic arthritis (PsA), it’s essential to understand the underlying condition that’s driving your symptoms. PsA is an autoimmune disease that affects around 8 million Americans, causing inflammation and pain in the joints, skin, and other areas of the body.

The Role of Inflammation

Inflammation is a key feature of autoimmune diseases like PsA. It can lead to a range of complications, including issues like spondylitis, enthesitis, uveitis, irritable bowel disease, and synovitis. If you experience a new or worsening symptom during a flare, it’s crucial to let your doctor know. Early treatment can reduce or prevent long-term damage.

Identifying Triggers

Triggers can vary from person to person, but common ones include:

• Infections: Catching a viral or bacterial infection can trigger a PsA flare. Bacterial infections like strep throat are particularly common triggers.
• Chronic Stress: Stress can exacerbate PsA symptoms, creating a vicious cycle. Research suggests that over 70% of people with psoriasis list stressful events as flare triggers.
• Environmental Factors: Cold weather and reduced daylight exposure can intensify PsA symptoms. Vitamin D deficiency, which is more common in winter months, may also contribute to flares.
• Physical Stress: Physical trauma, mechanical stress, and obesity can lead to inflammation and flares.
• Medication: Taking medication late or stopping certain medications can trigger flares. Some medications, like lithium and prednisone, can also exacerbate PsA symptoms.
• Lifestyle Habits: Unhealthy lifestyle habits, such as poor diet, lack of sleep, and smoking, can increase the risk of flares.

Managing Flares

While some risk factors, like family history and age, are outside of your control, there are many lifestyle changes you can make to reduce your risk of flares. These include:

• Adhering to Your Medication Plan: Taking your medication as prescribed can help prevent flares.
• Eating a Balanced Diet: Avoiding sugary and fried foods can help reduce inflammation.
• Getting Enough Sleep: Aim for 7-8 hours of sleep per night to help regulate your immune system.
• Quitting Smoking: Smoking can increase your risk of flares and worsen PsA symptoms.
• Exercising Regularly: Establishing an exercise plan can help reduce stress and improve overall health.

Treatment Options

If you’re experiencing a flare despite taking your medication and avoiding triggers, it may be time to change treatments. Your rheumatologist can help you explore options like changing your medication dose, type, or adding additional medications. Treatment changes should be a collaborative effort between your rheumatologist and dermatologist to ensure that your joints and skin are both being managed effectively.

By understanding PsA triggers and making proactive lifestyle changes, you can reduce your risk of flares and manage your symptoms more effectively. Remember to stay vigilant, communicate with your care team, and prioritize your overall health to keep your PsA at bay.