What is your psoriatic arthritis story? Let's share!

@Courtney_J Hi, I've been on this site for a bit. I've had psoriasis since I was a kid which over the years developed into psoriatic arthritis as well. I could handle the psoriasis pretty well over the years, but the PA is just a whole other kettle of fish. It's done a number on me and I've had some issues with anxiety and depression. I've been on methotrexate which worked pretty well for me. I've tried to take a more "internal" approach to it too by focusing on an anti-inflammatory diet, anti-oxidants, that kind of stuff and it has really helped too. Take care everyone!

@Courtney_J I've had psoriasis since 2013 and PA since 2015. The PA started out in my elbows and knees but I managed to ignore it, denial I guess. Psoriasis was bad enough, I guess I didn't want another cross to bear. Anyway, it started getting worse and it started creeping into my ankles and hands so I finally went to my doctor and rheumatologist who told me it was PA. They initially gave me painkillers and anti-inflammatories and I tried to eat "clean" in an attempt to lower inflammation. It worked for a few years but since I've started on methotrexate to try to control it better. It's definitely a struggle, but I try to take things one day at a time.

I'm on this site for my son. He was diagnosed late last year after having regular aches and pains and swelling in his hands and other joints. He's in his early twenties so we were shocked. He's been taking methotrexate and it seems to be working ok for him. It was hard for us being separated in lockdown since he's in a different state, but we've since learned to use FaceTime and other apps so we at least get to see each other over the phone. If anyone has any advice on how we could best support him, I'm open to hearing it!