All products featured on Self are independently selected by our editors.
However, we may receive compensation from retailers and/or from purchases of products through these links.
If youre dealing with unexplained, long-lastingjoint pain, understanding the difference betweenpsoriatic arthritisvs.rheumatoid arthritisis crucial.
There are subtle differences between psoriatic arthritis vs. rheumatoid arthritis.
Despite this, getting answers isnt so straightforward.
People may deal with painful symptoms for a long time before their doctor lands on an accurate diagnosis.
Heres what you better know.
As we mentioned, rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease.
But what does that mean exactly?
But thats not always the case and can make a clear diagnosis challenging.
you could develop psoriatic arthritis even if you dont have psoriasis and vice versa.
You may search through your family tree looking for a hereditary link to these conditionsbut is rheumatoid arthritis genetic?
What about psoriatic arthritis?
And while genes likely set the stage for rheumatoid arthritis, they dont necessarily act alone.
But youll also notice that there are some distinct psoriatic arthritis symptoms as well.
However, this isnt always the case, so this guideline isnt foolproof.
Then your doctor will examine your body to look for joint swelling that can indicate either form of arthritis.
Then we often move on to a more advanced technique.
That might include magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or ultrasound to unveil possible swelling in the soft tissues.
For example,changes in your nailscan include pitting or your nails separating from your nail beds.
Rheumatoid arthritis treatment versus psoriatic arthritis treatment
Can rheumatoid arthritis go away?
Can you reverse psoriatic arthritis?
Corticosteroids are another drug that suppresses inflammation and are commonly prescribed via oral medications or injection.
If you havepsoriatic arthritisandpsoriasis, then your treatment plan may vary slightly to helptreat your skin symptomstoo.
This often includes topical versions of corticosteroids, retinoids, or immunosuppressive creams like calcineurin inhibitors.
Plus, each medication comes with the risk of potential side effects.
Ongoing joint pain and swelling are not normal, Dr. Dubreuil stresses.
They warrant a check-in with your primary care provider.
