10 Essential Insights I Wish I’d Had About Developing Psoriatic Arthritis Early in Life
India Bolton’s journey through managing psoriasis, an autoimmune condition characterized by inflamed skin patches, showcases the challenges and realities of living with this disease. Alongside preparing for motherhood, she encountered another hurdle: psoriatic arthritis (PsA). This article explores her experiences and insights, especially as they pertain to the transition from psoriasis to PsA.
“I first noticed something was wrong when I was pregnant with my first child three years ago,” Bolton told Health. “I was constantly in some level of pain, especially in my hips, feet, and hands. My doctor said it was a normal pregnancy symptom. But after my daughter was born, it didn’t go away.”
After a year of uncertainty and multiple trials, Bolton finally received a diagnosis for her condition. It’s worth noting that approximately 30% of individuals with psoriasis will eventually develop psoriatic arthritis. While Bolton was aware of this statistic, she had thought it would be a distant concern.
Reflecting on her journey, Bolton expresses a desire to share wisdom with her younger self about the initial onset of symptoms. However, she acknowledges that her decisions would likely remain the same.
“I don’t feel like preparing for it would’ve made a difference,” she explained. “While I’m in pain some days, I still would’ve made the same life choices. I still would’ve had my kids.”
Understanding the Transition from Psoriasis to Psoriatic Arthritis
Bolton elaborates on her experience: “I wish I knew that it wasn’t as limiting as I thought it was going to be. It really does not affect my ability to be a mom at all. It’s hard for me to color with my daughter sometimes. And it was hard for me to hold my son’s bottle for six months; the hormones made the arthritis in my hand flare. I couldn’t feed him. But psoriatic arthritis is not going to stop me from living my life.”
When engaging in family activities or outings, Bolton suggests planning ahead:
- If we have a long day trip or a night out with friends, I’ll be more sore than usual for the next day or two, but I just plan for that.
- Self-care and rest are key to recovery.
Bolton acknowledges the emotional toll of comparing her situation to those of her peers. “Of course, it’s frustrating when I look at my friends in their 20s and 30s and see them doing things without issue. I see people on long walks and know that I couldn’t do that. We go bowling, and my hand hurts for a week afterward. Every time we do things, there are consequences, and I have to reckon with them.”
Coping with Bad Days
Bolton provides insight into her challenging days, marked by significant pain levels. “I’m used to some level of pain. Today I woke up with a pain level of 6 or 7 out of 10 because my hand hurts. It’s swollen, and I can’t get my rings off. But my hips are usually the worst. I don’t usually cry about the pain, but if it hits a 9 out of 10, I just have to sit in the bathroom and take an Epsom salt bath.”
Listening to her body is essential:
- “Sometimes, I’ll be walking with the shopping cart in the grocery store, and a sudden moment of hip pain will tell me, ‘Nope, not today!’ I just have to stand there and stretch it.”
Navigating Treatment Options
Bolton advises others in similar situations about treatment choices:
“There are more options for treatment than just pharmaceuticals. Three months ago, I found out I have an MTHFR gene mutation, which makes me react poorly to certain medications. I’m able to manage many of my psoriatic arthritis symptoms with a heating pad, a warm bath with Epsom salt, and Tylenol as needed.”
Concerns for the Future
Looking ahead, Bolton reflects on familial health:
“I wish I knew I could protect my kids from getting strep throat. While psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis are hereditary, strep is also a trigger for the onset of guttate psoriasis. For me, that ultimately progressed to psoriatic arthritis.”
Bolton warns about the potential consequences of frequent strep throat, recalling how it might have contributed to her own condition. “I had strep so many times when I was a kid. If I had known how closely it’s linked to psoriasis, I would’ve surfaced the issue to my doctor and asked about getting my tonsils out. I attribute my case of strep throat at 18 to the start of my psoriasis.”
In conclusion, India Bolton’s experience sheds light on the complexities of living with psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis. Through careful management and a proactive approach to treatment, she continues to embrace life and motherhood despite the challenges that arise.
