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Psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis treatment options

The right treatment for psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis can ease your pain and discomfort.

Female doctor performing a physical examination on the client

The right treatment for psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis can ease your pain and discomfort. It can also help you have symptoms less often. Do all you can to understand your treatment plan completely—how to follow it, what to expect and what to do if it's not working.

You may want to ask your doctor:

  • What are my medications, how do I take them and what will each one do for me?
  • How will we know if my treatment is working?
  • What are the possible side effects?
  • If I have side effects I can't tolerate, what should I do?
  • What should I do when I have a flare-up?
  • Are there other treatments that may help my skin symptoms (such as phototherapy, methotrexate, biologics or other immune system drugs)?
  • Are there other treatments that may help my joint symptoms (such as pain relievers, steroids, methotrexate, biologics, combined therapy, physical therapy or surgery)?
  • If you're starting me on new medications, should I keep taking the old ones?
  • Are there any alternative or complementary therapies that may help?
  • How often should I come back for follow-up visits?
  • If I'm being treated for other health conditions, what should I know or do?

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Psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis: getting started

If you're living with psoriasis or psoriatic arthritis, you know the effects aren't just physical. Not only do skin and joint symptoms hurt and itch, but they also take a toll on your emotions and social life and stop you from doing the things you enjoy. Relationships, goals, dreams, your stress level and your overall health can suffer.

While there's no cure for psoriasis or psoriatic arthritis, the right treatment can ease symptoms and help prevent flare-ups. It can also do wonders for your quality of life. And if you have psoriatic arthritis, starting treatment as early as possible can prevent lasting joint damage.

Use this guide to start a life-changing conversation with your doctor about the care you need—so you can get back to living.