Psoriasis and Psoriatic Arthritis in Dover - Rheumatology Center of Delaware
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Comprehensive Care for Dover Psoriasis and Psoriatic Arthritis at Rheumatology Center of Delaware
At the Rheumatology Center of Delaware, we specialize in diagnosing and treating both psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis with a compassionate, evidence-based approach.
Understanding Psoriasis and Psoriatic Arthritis
Psoriasis is a chronic skin condition characterized by the rapid buildup of skin cells, leading to scaling on the skin’s surface. This inflammatory disease affects approximately 7.5 million people in the United States. Some individuals with psoriasis develop psoriatic arthritis (PsA), an inflammatory disease that causes joint pain and stiffness.
The Link Between Psoriasis and Psoriatic Arthritis
While psoriasis primarily manifests as skin lesions, up to 30% of psoriasis patients may develop psoriatic arthritis. The exact cause remains unknown, but a combination of genetic, immune, and environmental factors is believed to play a role. Understanding this connection allows our specialists to monitor psoriasis patients closely for early signs of joint involvement.
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Rheumatoid Arthritis
Crohn’s
Osteoarthritis
Psoriasis and
Psoriatic Arthritis
Systemic Lupus
Ulcerative colitis
Joint injections
Connective
tissue disease
Osteoporosis
Temporal arteritis
Vasculitis
Generalized
joint pain
Ankylosing Spondylitis
Gout
Fibromyalgia
Polymyalgia
rheumatica
Rheumatoid Arthritis
Crohn’s
Osteoarthritis
Psoriasis and
Psoriatic Arthritis
Systemic Lupus
Ulcerative colitis
Joint injections
Connective
tissue disease
Osteoporosis
Temporal arteritis
Vasculitis
Generalized
joint pain
Ankylosing Spondylitis
Gout
Fibromyalgia
Polymyalgia
rheumatica
Signs and Symptoms of Dover
Psoriasis and Psoriatic Arthritis
Psoriasis Symptoms
Psoriasis primarily affects the skin, causing a range of visible symptoms. These include:
- Plaque formation: Raised, red patches covered with silvery-white scales, which are the hallmark of psoriasis. These plaques commonly appear on the elbows, knees, scalp, and lower back.
- Itching and discomfort: Psoriasis lesions can be intensely itchy and sometimes painful, especially when the skin becomes cracked or dry.
- Nail changes: Psoriasis can affect the nails, causing pitting (small dents), discoloration, and separation from the nail bed (onycholysis).
- Inflammation and redness: The skin beneath the plaques may appear inflamed and red, with some areas of swelling.
- Guttate psoriasis: This type of psoriasis appears as small, drop-like lesions often triggered by infections such as strep throat. It is common in children and young adults.
Psoriasis is a chronic condition with periods of flare-ups followed by remissions, and its severity can range from mild to severe.
Psoriatic Arthritis Symptoms
Early identification of psoriatic arthritis symptoms is crucial for effective management. Psoriatic arthritis (PsA) is an inflammatory disease that affects the joints, often in individuals with psoriasis. Common symptoms of psoriatic arthritis include:
- Joint pain and stiffness: This is particularly noticeable in the morning or after long periods of inactivity, and may affect any joint in the body.
- Swollen fingers and toes: Psoriatic arthritis may cause “sausage-like” swelling, especially in the fingers and toes, a condition known as dactylitis.
- Foot pain: People with PsA may experience pain in the back of the heel (due to Achilles tendinitis) or under the foot (from plantar fasciitis).
- Lower back pain: Spondylitis, inflammation of the joints between the vertebrae of the spine, can lead to persistent lower back pain and stiffness.
While both psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis can appear together in some individuals, psoriasis is not always a precursor to psoriatic arthritis, though the conditions are closely related.
Areas We Serve in Delaware - Psoriasis and Psoriatic Arthritis Treatment
Wilmington
Wilmington facility is committed to providing expert care in...
Dover
Dover facility offers prompt medical attention for...
Milford
Milford facility is dedicated to providing specialized care in...
Comprehensive Evaluation and Diagnosis
Accurate diagnosis of psoriatic arthritis involves a thorough clinical evaluation. Our approach includes a detailed medical history, physical examination, imaging studies, and blood tests to assess inflammation levels and rule out other conditions. This comprehensive assessment ensures a precise diagnosis, guiding effective treatment strategies.
Personalized Psoriatic Arthritis Treatment Plans
At the Rheumatology Center of Delaware, we recognize that each patient’s experience with psoriatic disease is unique.
Our personalized treatment plans are tailored to individual needs, focusing on reducing inflammation, alleviating joint pain, and controlling skin symptoms. We combine the latest medical advancements with compassionate care to achieve optimal outcomes.
PsA Medications
Pharmacological interventions are a cornerstone of psoriatic arthritis treatment. Depending on disease severity, we may prescribe nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs), or biologic agents targeting specific immune pathways. Our team stays abreast of emerging therapies to offer the most effective options.
Physical Therapy
Physical therapy plays a vital role in maintaining joint function and mobility. Our licensed physical therapists design individualized exercise programs to strengthen muscles, enhance flexibility, and reduce joint stiffness.
Incorporating physical therapy into treatment plans helps patients maintain an active lifestyle.
Lifestyle Modifications
Adopting healthy lifestyle habits can significantly impact disease progression and symptom severity. We provide guidance on weight management, balanced nutrition, and stress reduction techniques.
These modifications not only improve overall health but also aid in managing psoriatic arthritis symptoms effectively.
Skin Monitoring
Skin lesions associated with both psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis require attentive care. Our dermatology specialists collaborate with rheumatologists to address joint and psoriasis symptoms, ensuring comprehensive management.
Treatment options may include topical therapies, phototherapy, and systemic medications, ensuring comprehensive management of psoriatic disease.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis the same thing?
No, psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis are related but distinct conditions. While psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune skin disease that causes scaling and inflammation, psoriatic arthritis primarily affects the joints. Many people with psoriasis develop psoriatic arthritis, but not all experience joint involvement.
What is the first red flag of psoriatic arthritis?
The first warning sign of psoriatic arthritis is often joint pain, stiffness, or swelling, particularly in the fingers, toes, or lower back. Other common psoriatic arthritis symptoms include fatigue, nail changes, and morning stiffness that lasts longer than 30 minutes.
What is the root cause of psoriatic arthritis?
Psoriatic arthritis is an autoimmune disease, meaning the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy cells, leading to joint inflammation and skin symptoms.
The exact cause is unknown, but genetic predisposition, environmental factors, and an overactive immune response play significant roles in disease development.
What is the best pain relief for psoriatic arthritis?
Pain relief for psoriatic arthritis depends on disease severity. Over-the-counter NSAIDs like ibuprofen can help with mild joint pain, while prescription medications, including DMARDs and biologics, target inflammation at the source. Physical therapy, exercise, and a healthy diet can also help alleviate discomfort.
What happens if you don’t treat psoriatic arthritis?
If left untreated, psoriatic arthritis can lead to permanent joint damage, decreased mobility, and a reduced quality of life. Over time, the condition can cause deformities in the affected joints, chronic pain, and an increased risk of other health issues such as heart disease. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential for preventing long-term complications.
Dover's Trusted Rheumatologist Center: Schedule an Appointment Today!
Elevate your well-being with the best comprehensive treatment for Psoriasis and Psoriatic Arthritis in Dover at the Rheumatology Center of Delaware. Patients benefit from our in-depth knowledge and advanced therapies, including tailored psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis regimens, nutritional guidance, physical therapy recommendations, and ongoing care.
In addition, we address a wide range of autoimmune and musculoskeletal conditions. Our commitment to innovation and patient education helps reduce symptoms, improve mobility, and enhance overall well-being.
Call us today to receive expert guidance, advanced therapies, and compassionate care for all your rheumatology needs.
Contact Information
- 302-678-7438
- 260 Beiser Blvd #201 Dover, DE 19904
Delaware Agricultural Museum: A Step Back in Time
The Delaware Agricultural Museum and Village in Dover offers a fascinating look at the state’s rich farming heritage, featuring historic exhibits, interactive displays, and a recreated 19th-century rural village. Visitors can explore antique tractors, blacksmith shops, and traditional farming tools that shaped Delaware’s agricultural past. However, if psoriasis or psoriatic arthritis is making it difficult to move comfortably or enjoy outings, expert care can help. The Rheumatology Center of Delaware offers advanced treatments to manage symptoms and improve mobility. Visit today and take the first step toward relief—so you can continue exploring history without discomfort!
