Psoriatic arthritis (PsA)—two words that might sound foreign, complicated, and challenging to pronounce. For most people, PsA is a mystery, overshadowed by its counterpart, psoriasis. Successful therapy often starts with identifying early symptoms, but detecting PsA is not always straightforward. In my journey, psoriasis took center stage before PsA came into play.
Early Years with Psoriasis: A Unique Beginning
I was diagnosed with psoriasis when I was just five years old. For 1963, I was quite an anomaly—a young Black child covered head-to-toe in scaly patches. I was fortunate to have excellent doctors who treated me with the best available medications. I became somewhat of a “human guinea pig,” receiving advanced treatments that gave me a fighting chance.
It all began with a small, itchy patch on the back of my neck. At first, I ignored it, thinking it was harmless. But as the condition spread, I faced questions and stares. By the time I was a young adult working as an account manager for a government agency, psoriasis brought daily challenges. Clients would sometimes ask uncomfortable questions or give me strange looks.
When Psoriasis Became Psoriatic Arthritis
Just when I thought my battle couldn’t get harder, PsA entered my life. Many people with psoriasis may not realize that psoriatic arthritis is a real and common risk. It started with severe joint pain, particularly in my fingers and feet. Some days, even walking down the stairs felt like a monumental task.
Daily Challenges with PsA:
- Joint Pain: Every handshake became a test of endurance. I often had to ask people not to grip too firmly, but that wasn’t always professional or practical.
- Morning Fatigue: Waking up was often the hardest part of my day, with my body weighed down by night sweats and fatigue.
- Social Anxiety: My condition started affecting my personality. I feared I was becoming “that person” who always complained, the one who drained the energy out of every room.
Finding My Breakthrough
The turning point came when I decided to seek professional help. Talking to a psychologist opened my eyes to how deeply my condition had affected me. Over time, I realized that I had built defense mechanisms that pushed me away from loved ones—and from my true self.
What Helped Me Cope:
- Acceptance: The first step to living with PsA was accepting that this is my reality.
- Light Activities: I incorporated yoga and swimming into my routine. These activities eased my symptoms and made me feel stronger.
- Daily Routines: Structuring my day helped manage fatigue and made simple tasks more bearable.
Advice for Others with PsA
Living with psoriatic arthritis isn’t easy, but it is manageable with the right mindset and support. Here are my tips:
- Find the Right Therapy: PsA is different for everyone. Work closely with your doctor to discover what works best for you.
- Stay Active: Gentle exercise like swimming or yoga can help reduce stiffness and pain.
- Stay Positive: Focus on hobbies and activities that bring you joy and accomplishment.
- Seek Support: Don’t hesitate to talk to a psychologist or join a support group.
The journey is long, but acceptance and proactive care can make all the difference.
Wishing You Strength and Recovery
If you’re living with psoriatic arthritis, I hope my story offers some encouragement. Accepting PsA doesn’t mean giving up; it means finding a way to thrive despite its challenges. Keep pushing forward, and know that you are not alone in this journey.