There is no way to prevent PsA.
There is also no way to know which people with psoriasis will go on to develop PsA.
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Can You Prevent PsA?
Kobus Louw / Getty Images
PsA is an autoimmune disease in which the immune system malfunctions and attacks healthy tissues.
The immune systems attacks in PsA focus on the joints, entheses, and skin cells.
Experts do not know of any ways to prevent PsA.
There are no treatments available for people with psoriasis that guarantee they will not develop PsA down the road.
In time, there will be conclusive ways to prevent PsA.
In the meantime, healthcare providers place their focus on managing symptoms and disease progression in people with psoriasis.
How to Prevent PSA Flare-Ups
PsA is known for periods of flare-ups and remission.
Flare-ups are periods in which symptoms of PsA get worse or new symptoms develop.
Remission means PsA symptoms improve, and a person with the condition experiences few or no disease symptoms.
It is difficult to predict when a flare-up might occur.
Exercise
Research on the benefits of exercise for people with PsA is clear.
Side effects linked to exercise in people with PsA were minimal.
Exercise has additional benefits for people with PsA.
They might prescribe physical therapy.
Understand Your Triggers
Any number of things can trigger a PsA flare-up.
Once that happens, a few or many of their joints will become inflamed, stiff, and tender.
You might also experience severe fatigue.
It is important for people with PsA to understand how everyday stressors can lead to a flare-up.
Those triggers vary from person to person.
For example, your PsA might flare up as soon as you change your diet or the weather changes.
Someone else might experience a flare-up when they experience stressors at work or home.
Your provider can prescribe or adjust medications to potentially reduce flares.
Use Heat and Cold Therapy
Heat and cold therapies can resolve pain and other joint symptoms.
Both are generally safe, but you must be cautious when using these methods.
Take care not to expose bare skin to ice.
For some people, dairy might be a flare trigger to be avoided and substituted for non-dairy options.
These medications can reduce skin symptoms and treat itching and skin pain.
You should also contact them if you have psoriasis and experience new or worsening arthritis symptoms.
If you are experiencing a mild PsA flare, symptoms should subside in a day or two.
you might also reach out if you are unsure about symptoms or flare severity.
Your healthcare provider might be able to adjust your medications to help you get better faster.
They will put you back on your regular treatment plan after the flare has passed.
They might also prescribe an oral corticosteroid or give you a corticosteroid injection to help reduce inflammation quicker.
Summary
Psoriatic arthritis is a multifaceted condition.
It can develop from factors including genetics, joint and skin injuries, chronic stress, or psoriasis.
There is no way to prevent the condition.
Fortunately, PsA is treatable, and there are plenty of treatment options for the condition.
You should see your healthcare provider if you have psoriasis and experience arthritis symptoms.
A Word From Verywell
PsA is a lifelong condition without a cure.
Symptoms will come and go, and you will experience periods of flare-up and remission throughout your lifetime.
But the outlook for PsA can be good, thanks to the many available treatment options.
Working with your healthcare provider is the best way to manage PsA and improve your outlook.
Frequently Asked Questions
Each person with PsA has unique triggers that lead to flare-ups of the condition.
People with PsA will want to avoid foods that promote inflammation.
Getting enough vitamin C in your diet can help maintain cartilage and block free radicals linked to arthritis conditions.
Vitamin C is also an antioxidant, which means it can reduce inflammation.
National Psoriasis Foundation.About psoriatic arthritis.
National Psoriasis Foundation.Anti-inflammatory diet.
