Particularly as a person ages, there are any number of ailments and conditions that can affect their daily living. If you have a loved one who exhibits certain skin symptoms and joint pain, you may be wondering whether they have SLE (systemic lupus erythematosus) or PsA (psoriatic arthritis). They do have some symptoms in common, after all.
Here, we’ll examine psoriatic arthritis vs. lupus. Specifically, we will look at treatments, symptoms, and differences.
What Is Lupus?
An autoimmune disease, lupus causes the body to produce autoantibodies (abnormal antibodies). The body’s own tissues are mistakenly attacked by these antibodies. Joint swelling and pain are common, but this arthritis is not erosive (as compared to psoriatic arthritis).
Worldwide, lupus affects approximately 5 million people. Of Americans, approximately 1.5 million are likely affected. Though SLE is the most common type, there are actually several varieties of lupus. Causes of lupus may include environmental triggers, genetics, and/hormones.
What Is Psoriatic Arthritis?
There are no antibodies where the autoimmune disease psoriatic arthritis is concerned. The inflammatory process is considered immune mediated and is referred to as overactive. Joint swelling and pain are common. A loss of cartilage and bone results from this arthritis being erosive.
Psoriatic arthritis affects between .06% to .25% of America’s population. It occurs in approximately 30% of those with psoriasis. This autoimmune disease can develop quickly and aggressively or slowly, causing mild symptoms.
Treatments
Since the diseases themselves are different, various methods are used to treat each.
Lupus:
- Immunosuppressive drugs
- BLyS-specific inhibitors
- Antimalarial drugs
- Corticosteroids
- NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs)
Psoriatic arthritis:
- Apremilast (Otzela)
- JAK (Janus kinase) inhibitors
- Biologics
- DMARDs (disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs)
- NSAISs
For managing and treating PsA, the following may also be considered as interventions:
- Weight loss and a healthy diet
- Occupational therapy
- Physical therapy
- Light exercise programs that can include running, walking, swimming, or yoga
The Key Takeaways
Affecting the skin and joints, both lupus and psoriatic arthritis are considered autoimmune conditions. They are separate conditions even though they do share some similar symptoms. Because their disease processes are similar, a person can have both conditions.
Both lupus and PsA, once diagnosed and confirmed, can be managed and treated effectively. However, neither can be cured so both are lifelong conditions. Talk to your doctor if either of these conditions run in your family. They will better be able to determine your risks and, if possible, how those risks can be reduced.
With Our CarePlus Assisted Living Program, Your Loved One Gets the Care They Need
As a person ages, various illnesses, conditions, ailments and more can affect not only their quality of life but their ability to care for themselves. If your loved one is having more and more trouble executing daily living activities, it may be time to have a discussion with them regarding our Assisted Living Community. Here, they will get the care they need in a safe environment. As much as possible, we encourage independence but also offer help when needed, as well as abundant amenities and numerous opportunities for socialization.
Contact us today. To discuss sales and leasing, please phone us at 325-238-6944. Any other inquiries can be directed to someone at 325-793-1144. We also have a convenient online form you can use to start a conversation with us.
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