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Fibromyalgia is a strange disorder, and we do not fully understand what causes it yet. Due to this, there are studies being done all of the time to learn more about this disease. When disorders do coincide with fibro, we do not always know why because we do not fully understand the causes of fibro. The connections that some researchers make between disorders and fibromyalgia may seem weak at times, but the hope is that any connection may help us understand Fibro better. One such case is the link between Psoriatic Arthritis and Fibromyalgia. One study shows that Fibromyalgia is found in patients with Psoriatic Arthritis around 50% of the time. However, the reverse is not necessarily true. People with Fibromyalgia are not necessarily more disposed to having Psoriatic Arthritis. That means that there is a population of people that suffer from Psoriatic Arthritis and Fibromyalgia. This article is for those who suffer from Psoriatic Arthritis and Fibromyalgia, and who are looking for relief from the discomfort of Psoriatic Arthritis.
Psoriatic Arthritis (PsA) is a condition based in the immune system. PsA causes the body to attack joints and the tissues around them (including the skin). As a result the body produces extra skin cells to combat what the body perceives as damaged skin. The result is joint pain, inflammation, and the buildup of skin cells under the surface of the skin, called plaques, that itch, burn and flake. When treating this condition, you must address the internal joint inflammation, as well as the external itching and flaking.
Joint Inflammation
There are several options to treat the internal inflammation. Here are a look at the treatment options and remedies for inflammation associated with PsA.
Non-steroidal Anti Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)
Ibuprofen (Advil) and Naproxen Sodium (Aleve) are the most common NSAIDs used to treat the inflammation associated with PsA. There are also others that are not necessarily sold over the counter, and they can be prescribed by your doctor. Some NSAIDs work better than others, and many fell little or no relief from them.
Disease Modifying Anti-rheumatic Drugs (DMARDs)
DMARDs are generally Corticosteroids that are taken orally or via injection. These steroids reduce inflammation and slow the deterioration of the joint. They work well for flare ups, but they are not recommended to be used for prolonged periods of time. Prolonged use can cause negative effects instead of helping PsA.
Biologic Drugs
Biologics are derived from biological sources, and they are proteins that block the immune cells that can cause PsA. these drugs are administered via Intravenous Infusion (IV), and a doctor must refer the patient for the treatment.
Natural Remedies and Diet
One methods of treating this disease is to help the body fight against inflammation that is caused by the body attacking its cells. This can be done through several natural methods, including supplements and diet. Including fish oils, hemp seeds, turmeric (curcumin), ginger, garlic, and other anti-inflammatory substances into your diet will help the body fight against inflammation.
Skin Irritation and Plaques
There are several topical ointments and ingredients that can ease the irritation of the skin.
Capsaicin
Capsaicin is the chemical the makes chili peppers hot. It also helps to block pain receptors in the skin. There are several topical ointments that you can get over the counter (OTC) that will help to ease the itching and burning of PsA.
Coal Tar
It is as nasty as it sounds. This remedy is derived from coal and it stinks and stains. However, it helps to block the itching and inflammation while slowing the production of skin cells.
Corticosteroid Creams
These creams are meant to reduce the inflammation that causes the condition.
Vitamin D and Light treatment
Vitamin D deficiency is common in People with PsA, and there is some research that suggests that vitamin D supplementation reduces the symptoms of PsA. however, There is also research that suggests that Vitamin D does nothing to address the causes of PsA. This is a cheap and easy remedy though, so it might be worth a try to see if it helps you. There are ointments, and pills that you can take to up your Vitamin D. Another common therapy is sun or light therapy that uses UV light to up your body’s natural production of vitamin D.
Natural Remedies
There are several chemicals and natural ingredients that may bring relief to the skin. Oatmeal, Aloe Vera, Apple Cider Vinegar, tea tree and mint essential oils, and dead sea salts all have been said to help the symptoms of PsA in one way or another.
We hope that this information will bring some relief to those afflicted with Psoriatic Arthritis and Fibromyalgia. Give us some feedback. Have you tried any of these remedies? Which ones provide better relief for your symptoms?
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