(NAPSA)—Imagine having a disease that not only causes pain and stiffness on the inside, while affecting how you look on the out- side, but also causes you to experi- ence embarrassment and being treated differently. Imagine you were living with psoriatic arthritis. For the 500,000 people suffering from this chronic disease, this can be an unfortunate reality. Psoriatic arthritis is a chronic inflammatory disease that can cause pain, stiffness and swelling in and aroundthejoints. Psoriatic arthritis is related to psoriasis, a chronic skin disease that causes dry, red, scaly patches (lesions) on the skin. The physical symptoms associated with this complex dis- ease may not be the only source of pain for sufferers. The duality of symptoms—joint and skin—can cause not only physical pain but emotional pain as well. Lack of education about the condition and misunderstandings in public can be extremely frustrating and leave people feeling helpless to the point that many avoid public places and interaction with others and may even changetheir daily activities. “For many years, starting when I was in myteens, psoriatic arthritis pretty much dictated how I lived my life, whether it was being launched a new program, Psoriatic Arthritis Total approach to Health (PATH). PATH provides tools and information for managing both the physical and emotional aspects of the disease. Developed in coordination with a rheumatologist, psychologist, dermatologist, dermatology nurse, cosmetology instructor and several psoriatic arthritis patients, the PATH program is an online resource, www.psoriasis.org/ PATH, which features tips from experts on reducing stress, exer- cising, eating well and incorporating other healthy living ideas into everyday life. The site also includes tips on skincare and style to help people with psoriatic arthritis manage the often visible skin symptoms. The need for this patient program has never been more apparent; according to a new National Psoriasis Foundation survey, nearly half of respondents reported that their psoriatic arthritis caused large problems in everydaylife. In addition: Nearly two in three people with psoriatic arthritis who have avoided professional services such stress management. Diet And Nutrition: Propernutrition is important. Eating plenty of fruits and vegetables, grains and lean meats and avoiding “convenience”foods will help manage your weight and keep you healthy. Eating several small, healthy meals throughout the day provides your body with steadyfuel that will help maintain your energylevels. Exercise/PhysicalActivity: Taking a walkis an excellent wayto get exercise. If your feet, ankles or kneesare affected by arthritis, you may need a walking aid or shoe inserts to avoid putting undue stress on your lowerjoints. Be sure fo talk to your doctorbefore starting any exercise program. Source: www.psoriasis.org/PATH by a stylist, barber, skincare spe- endured psoriatic arthritis for more therapist. Two in three respondents were either overweight or obese, conditions that can cause undue stress on a person’s joints and exacerbate the physical symptoms To better meet the needs of people living with psoriatic arthritis, the National Psoriasis Foundation, in partnership with Abbott, has priority. Seek out the companyof those youtrust and with whom you can be yourself. Having a strong personal support network can leadto better avoided these because they were defined who I was,” said 47-year- than 30 years. Take time to be alone andidentify whatis important to you. Work towardthose goals as a SmartStyle: Using moisturizers can be helpful at improving skin redness andscaling. afraid of the reactions from providers or other patrons. One in three people indicated old Annie Escalona, who has Stress Management: as haircuts, manicures and skin therapy have done so to avoid embarrassment. While approximately half of respondents embarrassed to wear clothes that would show my armsandlegs or being stuck on the sidelines because of my aching joints unable to enjoy sports. Psoriatic arthritis PATH TopTipsFor Total Health For more information, go to www.psoriasis.org/PATH that they were refused treatment cialist, manicurist or massage @ of psoriatic arthritis. The PATH program helps people with psoriatic arthritis and their loved ones learn to manage living with their disease, offering encouragement and support so they may lead healthier, more ful- filling lives. For more information on PATH, please visit www.psoriasis.org/ PATH.
