Managing PsA

Managing PsA

Periods, Birth Control, and PsA

Through the years, I’ve had to cope with flares brought on by typical hormonal changes. Here's what my experience with periods, birth control, and other life changes has taught me.

Managing PsA

Alternative Therapies I’ve Tried to Treat PsA: What Helped and What Didn’t

Like many people who aren't candidates for certain drugs, I've been on a constant search for alternative therapies. Here's what I've tried, what's helped, and what hasn't worked for me.

Managing PsA

How I Deal with the Uncertainty of Living with an Autoimmune Disease

Uncertainty is simply part of the human experience — autoimmune disease or not. While uncertainty will always be a little bit scary, here’s how I deal with it.

Managing PsA

Morning Stiffness and Fatigue: Some Strategies to Help You Cope

One of my earliest symptoms of psoriatic arthritis (PsA) was stiffness in my hands in the morning; later, that pain moved to my feet. These are the strategies I've developed to deal with my morning stiffness and fatigue.

Managing PsA

How Do I Know When I’m Having a Flare-Up?

Flare-ups don’t have a one-size-fits-all definition. Instead, they can be helpful in describing a change in your baseline health. Here are some helpful points to consider if you are wondering if you’re having a flare.

Managing PsA

Apps, Tools, and Gadgets to Manage Your PsA 

From apps that track symptoms to gadgets that support mobility and pain relief, there's a world of technology that may help make life with PsA a little bit easier.

Managing PsA

Using AI to Manage Your Health Condition

I live with ulcerative colitis, a form of inflammatory bowel disease, as well as several other chronic health conditions. I wanted to see if ChatGPT could help me track my symptoms, plan meals, provide educational resources, and help me better manage my sleep and exercise routines. It was more useful in some areas than others.

Managing PsA

The Ultimate Flare Care Survival Guide

A personalized flare care guide can help you address your physical and emotional needs on days that feel overwhelming. These tips will equip you to weather the storm and come out stronger on the other side.

Managing PsA

Fatigue Is a Complicated Symptom to Treat

Chronic fatigue is a stubborn but common symptom that can take a toll on you, physically and mentally.

Managing PsA

Can Cannabis Help You Manage Psoriatic Arthritis?

Traditional routes don't always solve every issue. Here's how cannabis may be able to help offer some relief.

Managing PsA

How I Treat My Aching Heels

Some mornings, I wake up with terrible heel pain. Here are the top things that have helped me manage it.

Managing PsA

4 Ways I Use Water to Manage Psoriatic Arthritis

From navigating the effects of dehydration to offering comfort and relief, water has been a big part of my treatment plan.

Managing PsA

How I Cope with PsA Flares in My Jaw

My jaw started to show evidence of active arthritis as a teenager. There were times I felt like the pain would never end. If you’re going through this now, give yourself grace. Here’s how I cope with pain during my flares.

Managing PsA

How I Manage Stress to Avoid Psoriatic Arthritis Flares

Here are my favorite ways to reduce stress and protect my inner peace.

Managing PsA

4 Things That Make My Pain Worse and How I Manage Them

Sometimes, everyday activities and even doing things I enjoy cause flares. Living a full and happy life means finding the balance between doing things that feed my soul and managing triggers.

Managing PsA

Does Having PSA Mean You Should Give Up Alcohol Completely?

If you have PsA should you give up alcohol? Here's what to consider when determining what's right for you.

Managing PsA

Maintaining a Routine When Chronic Illness Takes Over

Maintaining a routine when you are dealing with chronic illness is an art. Small steps and gradual progress can help you find order amid the chaos of daily life.

Managing PsA

Managing PsA in Summer Heat and Humidity

Warding off flares can be a challenge in any season. These tips will help you enjoy the summer while managing PsA's reaction to heat and humidity.

Managing PsA

How I Make Working in an Office Slightly Easier

When you have PsA, working in an office can be difficult. Here are the ways I make my day more manageable when dealing with pain and flare-ups.

Managing PsA

Isolation Goes Beyond Being Unable to Attend Events 

Living with a hidden disability and chronic pain can isolate you in more ways than you’d expect. Here are my tips for fighting the loneliness.

Managing PsA

How to Find Your Work-Life Balance with Chronic Illness

Chronic illness weaves its way into daily life and often throws our work-life balance off kilter. Finding work-life balance is crucial to our well-being.

Managing PsA

Can Magnesium Help My Arthritis?

Strengthening bones and reducing inflammation are some of the potential benefits from magnesium.

Managing PsA

Therapy Helps Me Manage My Psoriatic Arthritis

Therapy can help you develop invaluable coping skills and self-compassion that will boost your emotional, mental, and even physical health.

Managing PsA

Feeling Foggy During Psoriatic Arthritis Flares

It's challenging to manage the symptoms of a chronic illness while having a life. Here's what's worked for me when addressing PsA and brain fog.

Managing PsA

Keeping a Health Diary Can Empower You in Your PsA Journey

Implementing a health diary can help us monitor patterns, empowering us to make more informed health choices.

Managing PsA

To Cheese or Not to Cheese? With PsA, That Really Is the Question

If avoiding dairy helps you limit PsA flares, is eating vegan cheese really a healthy alternative?

Managing PsA

Should You Try a Clinical Trial as a Treatment Option? What to Know

Clinical trials may offer cutting-edge treatment options for your condition. Here's what to know.

Managing PsA

Why I Won’t Talk About My Health with Family and Friends

I generally don’t discuss my health with family and friends because it can be painful when they aren’t supportive. Here’s how I assess who to share with and how I protect my boundaries.

Managing PsA

Experts Share Skin Care Routine Tips for Psoriasis

Experts share top skin care tips to help you feel your best and avoid triggering flares.

Managing PsA

Navigating New Insurance and Biologic Coverage

Changing insurance can lead to frustrating bumps in the road on your healthcare journey. Here's how I navigate new insurance and getting coverage for my biologic.

Managing PsA

When Touch Hurts: Navigating PsA in Relationships

When touch hurts you may experience feelings of dread, insecurity, and guilt. Here’s how I navigate PsA and physical affection in my relationship.

Managing PsA

6 Tips for Remembering Medications

It’s time to get organized. Here are six tips for remembering to take your medications from someone living with diabetes.

Managing PsA

Psoriatic Nails? Don’t Despair: Help Is Available

Dealing with psoriatic nails can be unpleasant and downright painful, but there is hope for relief. Here are treatment and self-care options that can help you manage your condition.

Managing PsA

Mastering the Art of Becoming Your Own Medical Advocate

Becoming your own medical advocate is the best way to ensure your care is consistent. These expert tips will help you navigate self-advocacy.

Managing PsA

The Hug You Didn’t Know You Needed: How Compression Garments Could Help

Here's my experience with compression garments, and 5 things to consider if you want to try them out.

Managing PsA

A Playlist for Grief

Music can be healing. Guide Jenny Durand shares her top 10 songs to help get you through times of grief.

Managing PsA

A Promising Science-Based Approach to PsA Remission

Finding the right treatment plan can help you effectively manage PsA, but getting there can take time. Here's how I replaced magical thinking with a promising science-based approach to PsA remission.

Managing PsA

I Was a Technophobe — Then I Got Tech-Savvy to Manage My Chronic Condition Better

I used to hate technology. Then, I learned it could help me manage costs, communicate quicker and more effectively with my doctors, and save me time and energy. And it wasn’t nearly as difficult as I’d imagined!

Managing PsA

How to Effectively Manage Painsomnia

Small habit changes can make a big difference. Experts share tips for helping you get a better night's sleep when you're suffering from chronic pain.

Managing PsA

The Medicinal Magic of Music

Bezzy RA guide, Ashley Boynes-Shuck, shares her relationship with music and how it's helped her through hard times.

Managing PsA

6 Ways to Help Ease Morning Stiffness

Occupational therapist and fellow RA warrior, Cheryl Crow, shares her six top tips for easing morning stiffness.

Managing PsA

How to Manage Irritating Winter Psoriasis Symptoms

Winter can swiftly turn manageable psoriasis into a flare. These tips will help you adapt to seasonal changes with more comfort.

Managing PsA

How I Approach Cold and Flu Season While on Biologics for PsA

I’m challenging myself to find a healthy balance between staying safe during cold and flu season and enjoying life.

Managing PsA

How Meditation Helps Me Manage My Pain

Try this beginner's meditation guide to soothe pain from chronic conditions.

Managing PsA

What Types of Surgery Can Help with Psoriatic Arthritis?

These are the types of surgery that may help with psoriatic arthritis and the factors to consider if you're thinking about getting surgery.

Managing PsA

What You Need to Know About Prednisone for Psoriatic Arthritis

Here's what you need to know if you’re considering incorporating prednisone into your treatment plan for psoriatic arthritis.

Managing PsA

Arthritis-Friendly Peanut Butter Cookies for the Holiday Season

These peanut butter cookies, which are dairy- and gluten-free and contain a small amount of coconut sugar, help minimize my arthritis symptoms and flares.

Managing PsA

Is this Normal Aging or an Oncoming Flare?

Sometimes it can be challenging to distinguish between an oncoming flare and normal signs of aging. Whatever the cause, here are five ways to help protect you from flares and alleviate symptoms.

Managing PsA

Does Methotrexate Cause Hair Loss?

Lower doses of methotrexate used to treat chronic conditions like rheumatoid arthritis can sometimes lead to hair loss or thinning. It's uncommon, but there are things that can help prevent this side effect.

Managing PsA

Can Psoriatic Arthritis Cause Hip Pain?

If you have psoriatic arthritis and are experiencing hip pain, here are some ways to help manage it.

Managing PsA

Can Psoriatic Arthritis Cause Hair Loss?

If you have psoriatic arthritis and are experiencing hair loss, you may be wondering if there is a connection. Here's what you should know about the correlation between psoriatic arthritis and hair loss and what you can do to address it.

Managing PsA

Can Psoriatic Arthritis Cause Dizzy Spells?

Psoriatic arthritis can come with a range of symptoms and side effects. Dizziness can be one of them. 

Managing PsA

The Importance of Escapism from a World of Pain

Distraction can be a powerful way to cope with pain. Here’s how I use escapism as a pain management technique.

Managing PsA

Can Avoiding Sugar Help Relieve PsA Symptoms? This Baker Did an Experiment to Find Out 

As the owner of a small baking business, I wondered how I could ever give up sugar. Here's how I changed my diet to help reduce my PsA symptoms.

Managing PsA

Psoriatic Arthritis and Eye Problems: What’s the Link?

People with psoriatic arthritis have a higher risk of certain eye symptoms including redness, eye pain, and vision impairment.

Managing PsA

Gelling Phenomenon: How Does It Affect Psoriatic Arthritis?

The “gelling phenomenon” occurs when joints become stiff after a period of inactivity, such as when you’re asleep or sitting for a long time. If you have PsA, here's how it may affect you.

Managing PsA

The Best Exercises for People with Psoriatic Arthritis

If you have PsA, it's important to get exercise while protecting your joints. Here's how to do it.

Managing PsA

When Your Treatments Make You Sick: A Personal Experience

What happens when the immunosuppressants intended to keep psoriatic arthritis (PsA) under control lower your defenses? Here’s how I navigated my recent experience with neutropenia.

Managing PsA

My Long Road to Low Back Pain Relief

After trying endless treatments for low back pain, I finally found one that helped.

Managing PsA

5 Ways to Manage the Unpredictability of Psoriatic Arthritis (PsA)

From tracking your daily activities to getting a little support from others, these tips will help you manage the unpredictability of PsA.

Managing PsA

Is Psoriatic Arthritis a Disability? A Guide to PsA Benefits

If you have psoriatic arthritis, find out what you need to apply for disability benefits and whether you qualify.

Managing PsA

Managing Psoriatic Arthritis and Flu-Like Symptoms

Some psoriatic arthritis symptoms may be similar to signs of the flu. Here’s how to tell them apart.

Managing PsA

What Are the Best Anti-Inflammatory Fruits?

Understanding what fruits to eat to minimize inflammation can be instrumental when managing your psoriatic condition.

Managing PsA

Accessing Accommodations at Work or School Can Feel Overwhelming. Where Do I Start?

Whether you are a student or in the workforce, you deserve to have your needs met. Asking for accommodations can be intimidating. This article will help you figure out your first steps.

Managing PsA

Sun Exposure, Phototherapy, and Psoriasis: What You Should Know

An effective way of managing PsO plaques may be with exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays via natural sunlight or indoor phototherapy, but it's important to understand and manage the risks.

Managing PsA

How Psoriatic Arthritis Affects Nails

Psoriatic arthritis-related nail changes may appear in different ways. Here's what to look out for and when to see a doctor.

Managing PsA

16 Psoriatic Arthritis Acupuncture Points

Acupuncture may have benefits for PsA, including pain reduction, but more research is needed.

Managing PsA

The Lasting Effect of the Opioid Epidemic on People Living with Chronic Pain Conditions

The ripple effect of opioid overprescription and misuse has left some people living with chronic pain without adequate care and carrying the burden of stigma. Experts are looking for adequate alternative treatments, but there's a long way to go.

Managing PsA

Can You Have Psoriatic Arthritis Without Psoriasis?

Just because you have psoriatic arthritis doesn't mean you will develop psoriasis. Learn about the statistics, symptoms of psoriatic arthritis beyond psoriasis, how psoriatic arthritis is diagnosed, and some tips for reducing chronic inflammation.

Managing PsA

Apple Cider Vinegar for Psoriatic Conditions

Apple cider vinegar (ACV) has many uses, but is it effective for psoriasis? Learn more about its benefits, side effects, and how to consume.

Managing PsA

Back Pain and Psoriatic Arthritis? Here’s What You Need to Know

Back pain is a common symptom among people living with psoriatic arthritis. Learn what causes psoriatic arthritis back pain, what it feels like, and tips for coping.

Managing PsA

Exhausted? Here’s What You Should Know About Psoriatic Arthritis Fatigue

Fatigue in psoriatic arthritis is more than feeling tired. It doesn't go away even if you take a nap or drink a cup of coffee. Learn what causes PsA fatigue, what it feels like, and tips for coping.

Managing PsA

5 Ways to Advocate for Yourself When Your Pain Is Dismissed

It can be hard to feel like your concerns about your pain aren’t being heard. Learn strategies for speaking up for yourself and getting the care you deserve.

Managing PsA

Tired? Decision Fatigue May Be to Blame

Decision fatigue is common in people with chronic conditions. Learn what it is and simple tips to manage it.

Managing PsA

What to Know About the Stages of Psoriatic Arthritis

Psoriatic arthritis progression isn't linear and not everyone experiences the stages of PsA in the same way. Learn about early stage, severe disease, and remission, plus how to slow progression.

Managing PsA

Am I ‘Sick Enough’ for a Mobility Aid?

If you’re asking if you need a mobility aid, chances are you do. Understand your options, how to navigate stigma, and how to know if you “really” need a mobility aid.

Managing PsA

How Fatigue Changed My Mindset as a Disability Activist

Hustle culture and the pandemic made me hit a breaking point. I was exhausted, but being an activist made me want to fight on. Now, I live by a different mantra.

Managing PsA

6 Psoriatic Arthritis Symptoms That Might Surprise You

You may not realize that psoriatic arthritis can affect your nails, eyes, heart, and more.

Managing PsA

Can You Get Psoriatic Arthritis in Your Fingers?

Learn how PsA can affect your fingers and what you can do to manage the symptoms and prevent flares.

Managing PsA

I Tried Acupuncture for My Psoriatic Arthritis Pain: Here’s How It Went

Acupuncture — targeting specific pressure points in the body with thin needles — can be a great pain management tool to add to your holistic treatment plan. Writer Kaitlyn McInnis describes her experience.

Managing PsA

Biologics and Building a Family: What You Should Know

If you're taking biologics for psoriasis or psoriatic arthritis, planning ahead to understand the current research, speak with the right health professionals, and choose a treatment plan can help you feel ready for pregnancy.

Managing PsA

How to Approach Questions During Your Rheumatology Appointment

Knowing what, when, and how to ask questions during your rheumatology appointment can be key to managing your condition. Stefanie Remson, a nurse practitioner living with RA, shares her tips to get the most out of your appointment.

Managing PsA

We Need to Talk About The Financial Challenges of Living with a Chronic Condition

Living with a chronic condition can be expensive. We need to do a better job of providing resources and support to those who need it. Here are some of the ways that living with a chronic condition or disability can be costly, as well as some tips for ways to get assistance.

Managing PsA

FDA Approves New Drug for Severe Plaque Psoriasis — Here’s What You Need to Know

The introduction of a new psoriasis treatment means questions about how it works, how it compares to other medications, and whether it's an option for you. Learn more here.

Managing PsA

Can You Get Psoriatic Arthritis in Your Toes?

Learn how PsA can affect your toes and what you can do to manage the symptoms and prevent flares.

Managing PsA

Creating Your Own Personal Health Record

A personal health record is controlled by you, the patient. It can have many benefits, including stronger engagement and understanding of your own health. Stefanie Remson, a nurse practitioner living with RA, provides a template to get your own record started.

Managing PsA

Flu Season Is Upon Us: What Those Living with Chronic Conditions Need to Know

If you're living with a chronic condition, it's important to be aware of your risks and what you can do to lower your risk of catching the flu. Learn more here.

Managing PsA

New Year, New Condition Management Plan?

From medication to diet to movement, these six timely tips can help you reevaluate your psoriatic arthritis (PsA) management as we move into the new year.

Managing PsA

9 Ways to Manage Psoriatic Arthritis in Cold Weather

Joint pain isn't the only thing that makes this time of year difficult for people with psoriatic arthritis. Learn to tend to your body and mind with these tips.

Managing PsA

How to Navigate Common Healthcare Challenges During the Holiday Season

Accessing healthcare during the holidays can be difficult for a number of reasons. These suggestions will help you navigate any challenges and help you feel supported.

Managing PsA

Ask the Dietitian: Does Eating Meat Affect My Psoriasis?

While red meat and other processed foods may contribute to psoriasis flares, keeping a food diary and eating a balanced diet can help you determine if it's a factor for you.

Managing PsA

8 Cold Weather Joint Pain Remedies

If you're living with arthritis, cold weather may make your joint pain worse. From a paraffin wax treatment to warming green tea, these are some of my favorite cold weather joint pain remedies.

Managing PsA

How to Find a New Rheumatologist When Yours Leaves

Losing your rheumatologist can be like losing a close friend. But it's also a chance to have a fresh set of eyes for your medical care. These eight tips will help you navigate finding a new rheumatologist.

Managing PsA

My Top 11 Favorite Natural and At-Home Remedies for PsA Pain Management

Writer Leanne Donaldson explains her favorite supplemental remedies for PsA pain relief.

Managing PsA

Ask the Expert: How Does Physical Therapy Work for PsA?

Dr. Gregory Minnis PT, DPT, explains the benefits of physical therapy for psoriatic arthritis.

Managing PsA

How I Found Balance with Conventional and Holistic Treatments to Manage My PsA

When it comes to managing psoriatic arthritis, you don't have to choose between conventional medical treatments and holistic treatments. Here's how I've found the best of both worlds.

Managing PsA

Ask the Dietitian: What’s the Connection Between PsA and IBD?

Many people with PsA experience gut symptoms, both in and out of a flare. Dietitian Laura Krebs-Holm explores the connection between PsA, IBD, and gut health.

Managing PsA

Contemplative Practices Can Help When You Live with Chronic Pain

Pain has taught me a lot about who I am. My contemplative practice has been an important part of my journey into knowing myself.

Managing PsA

Bright Futures: Medical and Treatment Developments for PsA

There is currently no cure for PsA, but new treatments are always on the horizon. This article details a few of the current treatment developments.

Managing PsA

An Overview of the Most Commonly Prescribed Medications for PsA

There is currently no cure for PsA, but there are plenty of medications that can help you manage your symptoms. This article lists several of the most commonly prescribed medications.

Managing PsA

Managing Guilt with the Unpredictability of Chronic Illness

If you have a chronic condition like rheumatoid arthritis (RA), canceling plans last minute can come with the territory.

Managing PsA

RA and PsA Are Not the Same, Here’s What You Need to Know About Both

There are some similarities between rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and psoriatic arthritis (PsA) but there are key differences between the two autoimmune conditions.

Managing PsA

12 Tips for Managing Heat Intolerance When You Live with Arthritis

Staying cool can be hard when you have inflammatory arthritis, but here are 12 ways to beat the heat.

Managing PsA

How to Know It’s Time to Get a Second Opinion and Tips for Switching Rheumatologists

If you are consistently finding yourself hitting treatment dead ends when it comes to your RA, it may be time to seek out a fresh perspective on your case.

Managing PsA

A Nurse Practitioner’s Role When Treating Your Arthritis

With arthritis cases rising and physician numbers declining, here’s why you should know about nurse practitioners.

Managing PsA

How to Navigate the U.S. Healthcare System When You Live with a Chronic Condition

Dealing with the U.S. healthcare system when you have a chronic condition can feel impossible, but it’s easier when you know what to expect.

Managing PsA

How I Manage My Psoriatic Arthritis While Traveling Abroad

I decided long ago that psoriatic arthritis wasn’t going to keep me from traveling. Smart planning can make long-distance travel possible, even for those of us with PsA.

Managing PsA

9 Tips for Making the Most Out of Doctor’s Appointments When You Have Psoriasis

For years after my psoriasis diagnosis, I felt intimated by going to the doctor. With time, I've learned how to make the most of appointments by preparing in advance and speaking up about what I need.

Managing PsA

What to Expect at Your First Rheumatology Appointment

Taking some time to brush up on your health history and list your meds will make the paperwork easier, but other steps can also help make the most of your time.

Managing PsA

6 Tips for Making Yourself as Comfortable as Possible During a Psoriasis Flare

Here are some tips to soothe your skin, reduce your symptoms, and keep as comfortable as possible during a psoriasis flare.

Managing PsA

How Mobility Aids Have Affected My Experience Living with Chronic Illness

My cane and rollator walker have changed my life for the better by helping me experience life more fully.

Managing PsA

3 Reasons Why Psoriatic Arthritis Can Be Difficult to Diagnose

While we at Bezzy are dedicated to psoriatic arthritis, it doesn't always receive the same awareness and recognition elsewhere.

Managing PsA

7 Lessons I Learned When My Psoriatic Arthritis Flares Intensified Last Year

While I'm starting the new year feeling like I have a good handle on my health, it has taken a lot of learning to get to this point.

Managing PsA

6 Tips for Coping with Hair Loss and Your Chronic Condition

Hair loss was a blow to my identity, but I'm slowly learning to come to terms with it.

Managing PsA

My Experience with the Third COVID-19 Vaccine Dose and Psoriatic Arthritis

Life like it was before the pandemic still seems a long way off, but with every jab it feels a little closer.

Managing PsA

Immunocompromised? Here’s How to Navigate the Ever-Changing COVID-19 Guidelines

Understanding our unique set of concerns and protocols can feel dizzying. But there are actions you can take to protect yourself.

Managing PsA

I’m an Occupational Therapist with RA. These Are My 6 Favorite Exercises and Stretches for Hand Pain

Stretches and strengthening exercises can help reduce the stiffness that's associated with inactivity in rheumatoid arthritis. They can also help provide stability around joints through strengthening.

Managing PsA

5 Joint-Friendly Exercises That Help Me Stay Active Through My Worst Psoriatic Arthritis Flares

I’ve found that the key is to tailor my workouts to what my body needs on any given day.

Managing PsA

Ask the Expert: COVID-19 Vaccines and Chronic Conditions

A pharmacist answers common questions among Healthline's chronic condition communities.

Managing PsA

The Path to Biologics: Finding a Psoriatic Arthritis Treatment That Works for Me

I was terrified of biologics as a treatment for psoriatic arthritis — until it changed my life.

Managing PsA

4 Tips for Navigating the World of Mobility Aids for Psoriatic Arthritis

You may not have a choice about needing a mobility aid, but how you feel about it is completely up to you.

Managing PsA

How Virtual Care Has Changed My Chronic Illness Treatment

The option of virtual care used to be a dream for managing my chronic illness. It took a pandemic for that dream to come true.

Managing PsA

A Guide to Disability Benefits and Psoriatic Arthritis

Disability benefits can give you some much-needed peace of mind when you're living with psoriatic arthritis.

Managing PsA

How I Created Flexible, Remote Work While Living with a Chronic Illness

I was productive, I had purpose, and I was bringing in an income, all while taking good care of myself.

Managing PsA

Immunocompromised: How to Know If You Have a Weakened Immune System

If you have a compromised immune system, you can take actions to protect yourself and stay healthy.