![]() The over-the-counter (OTC) and prescription treatments for psoriasis include: Others work mainly or only on skin problems or arthritis. Since many people with PsA have psoriasis, they may see a primary care doctor, a dermatologist and a rheumatologist. Managing psoriatic arthritis can seem like treating two diseases. Treatment of psoriatic arthritis focuses on:Įarly, aggressive treatment of PsA helps to minimize the effect of the disease on your quality of life. ![]() Tests of the fluid around a joint can help rule out gout or infectious arthritis. People with PsA are almost always RF-negative, so if blood tests are positive for rheumatoid factor, the doctor will suspect RA. They include C-reactive protein and rheumatoid factor (RF). Blood tests check for signs of inflammation. The doctor may order X-rays to look for changes to bones and joints. The doctor will look for joint pain, tenderness, swelling, warmth or limited movement, skin or nail changes. The doctor will discuss when symptoms started, if they come and go, how severe they are, what actions makes them better or worse and whether family members have psoriasis, PsA or another autoimmune disease. The doctor will use medical history, a physical examination and lab tests to make the diagnosis. A primary care doctor or a rheumatologist may be seen first, if arthritis is the chief complaint. A skin doctor (dermatologist) may be seen if skin and/or nail problems appear first. The first symptoms to appear may determine which doctor makes the diagnosis. ![]() No single test can confirm psoriatic arthritis. A prompt diagnosis is an important first step in managing PsA. ![]()
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