Psoriatic Arthritis Treatment in Saint Pete, Oldsmar, & Clearwater, FL

What are the Psoriatic Arthritis Symptoms and Signs?

Psoriatic arthritis is an autoimmune condition, meaning the body's immune system mistakenly attacks its own healthy tissues—in this case, both the skin and the joints. Psoriatic arthritis symptoms can vary greatly from person to person. In most cases, people develop psoriasis first, sometimes years before the onset of arthritis.

Common signs and symptoms include:

• Swollen Fingers and Toes: A characteristic symptom is dactylitis, a painful, sausage-like swelling of an entire finger or toe.
• Joint Pain and Stiffness: The arthritis can affect any joint in the body, from small joints in the hands to large joints like the knees and spine. It is often asymmetrical, meaning it affects a joint on one side of the body but not the other. Stiffness is usually worse in the morning.
• Skin Plaques and Nail Changes: The classic red, scaly patches of psoriasis are common. Patients may also experience pitting, discoloration, or separation of the fingernails and toenails.
• Foot Pain: Pain can occur at the points where tendons and ligaments attach to bone, particularly at the back of the heel (Achilles tendinitis) or the sole of the foot (plantar fasciitis).
• Comorbid Conditions: Psoriatic arthritis is often associated with ankylosing spondylitis, inflammatory bowel disease, and uveitis.

What is the Best Psoriatic Arthritis Treatment?

There is no cure for psoriatic arthritis, but a wide range of effective treatments can control symptoms, stop disease progression, and prevent joint damage. Your psoriatic arthritis doctor will tailor a treatment plan to your specific symptoms and severity. The goal of psoriatic arthritis treatment is to reduce inflammation in both the skin and joints.

For mild cases, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may be enough to manage pain. However, most patients require more advanced therapies. Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) can slow the progression of PsA and save joints from permanent damage. For moderate to severe disease, biologic agents are often the most effective psoriatic arthritis medication. These advanced drugs target specific parts of the immune system that fuel inflammation. Many of these biologics are administered via infusion therapy, and Bay Area Rheumatology features comfortable, state-of-the-art infusion suites in both our Clearwater and Oldsmar offices to provide these vital treatments.

How is a Psoriatic Arthritis Diagnosis Made?

A definitive psoriatic arthritis diagnosis can be challenging because its symptoms can mimic other types of arthritis, like rheumatoid arthritis and gout. There is no single test to confirm PsA. An experienced rheumatologist will make a diagnosis based on a combination of factors, including:

• Physical Exam: Your doctor will check your joints for signs of swelling and tenderness, examine your skin for psoriasis, and check your nails for pitting or other changes.
• Medical History: Your doctor will ask about your personal and family history of psoriasis and arthritis.
• Imaging Tests: X-rays or MRIs can help your doctor see changes in the bones and joints that are characteristic of psoriatic arthritis.
• Blood Tests: While there is no blood test for PsA itself, your doctor may order tests to rule out other conditions. For example, testing for rheumatoid factor (RF) can help distinguish PsA from rheumatoid arthritis, as PsA patients are typically RF-negative.

Why Choose Bay Area Rheumatology for PsA?

When searching for a psoriatic arthritis specialist near me, you need a team that offers deep expertise and comprehensive care. The providers at Bay Area Rheumatology are nationally recognized leaders in the field. They are board-certified, involved in clinical research, and active in educating the next generation of rheumatologists. This commitment to academic medicine means we provide the most current and effective psoriatic arthritis treatment options.

We are also fierce patient advocates. Our dedicated team works tirelessly to manage prior authorizations and fight insurance denials, ensuring you have access to the advanced psoriatic arthritis medication you need. With quick appointment access for patients from Palm Harbor to Tarpon Springs, we are the premier choice for psoriatic arthritis care in the Tampa region.

Are the Causes of Rheumatoid Arthritis and Psoriatic Arthritis Similar?

While both are autoimmune diseases that cause joint inflammation, the underlying causes of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and psoriatic arthritis (PsA) are distinct. In RA, the immune system primarily targets the synovium, the lining of the joints. In PsA, the inflammation tends to affect entheses (where tendons and ligaments attach to bone) in addition to the joint lining. Genetics also play different roles; different genes are associated with the risk of developing RA versus PsA. Although some symptoms overlap, a skilled rheumatologist can differentiate between the two, which is crucial because treatment strategies can differ.

How Do I Schedule an Appointment?

Getting expert care for your joint pain and skin symptoms is simple. Bay Area Rheumatology is committed to providing fast and easy access to our specialists. We offer a convenient online scheduling portal, allowing you to book your visit without delay. Our compassionate team is ready to provide the expert diagnosis and comprehensive treatment you deserve. We look forward to seeing you at one of our Tampa-area clinics and helping you manage your psoriatic arthritis effectively.