Relief from the pain, stiffness of psoriatic arthritis, courtesy of specialist care in Encinitas, CA

As its name suggests, psoriatic arthritis is associated with the skin condition, psoriasis; however, this inflammatory disease is also related to a number of different medical conditions. These “comorbidities” include:

• Crohn’s disease
• Ulcerative colitis
• Osteoporosis
• Uveitis, ocular inflammation
• Diabetes
• Chronic kidney disease
• Heart disease

Some of the above conditions are related to genes that are also present among patients with some sort of GI involvement, such as Crohn’s. Other conditions on the list represent potential complications of untreated psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis (PsA). These conditions call for accurate diagnostics and prompt psoriatic arthritis relief in Encinitas, CA, from a Board-Certified Rheumatologist: Dr. Peter Lloyd.

A note on diagnostics

There is no single “first-line” diagnostic test to pinpoint PsA. So, it is important to select a provider who has “seen it all” as it relates to rheumatological conditions. Dr. Lloyd brings his depth of knowledge and years of experience to bear when ruling out associated conditions. Additionally, he has invested in the latest, safe technologies to identify and treat conditions, such as PsA. He is also a big proponent of ultrasound imaging of the musculoskeletal system. This reliable technique presents a great opportunity to define the diagnosis among psoriasis sufferers, as well as to identify the severity of the PsA disease. It also provides useful information about structural damage and inflammatory activity, which has been demonstrated to be responsive to treatment. And that treatment, depending on Dr. Lloyd’s findings, may include:

• NSAIDs – OTC medications, such as aspirin, or stronger prescription products that take aim at joint pain, stiffness, swelling, and inflammation
• DMARDs – For more severe symptoms, these disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs can halt the progress of PsA and related hard and soft tissue damage.
• Biologic drugs – These prescription medications are also available to patients with more severe symptoms, whose PsA hasn’t responded to other, more conservative treatments. Maybe injected or IV infused, to slow or stop joint damage.

We live up to the “wellness center” in our name, too. Since there are such strong linkages between PsA and digestive conditions, Dr. Lloyd may also recommend lifestyle modifications. These recommendations may include changes to diet, and the addition of supplements, as well as stress-relieving and relaxation techniques. His patients have also benefited from a “prescription” of physical therapy and exercise.

You deserve relief from the pain, swelling, stiffness, and fatigue of Psoriatic Arthritis. Call 760-509-2429 to schedule your appointment with Dr. Lloyd at the Seaside Rheumatology and Wellness Center in Encinitas, CA.

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