by Maryvera » Sun Sep 24, 2006 3:58 am
There is a history of psoriasis in my husband's family - his elder sister suffered from what is sometimes known as Common P. - on knees, behind knees, elbows and long limbs; his son was diagnosed with PA, around the age of 30, after joint pain, particularly in his hands, and my husband has been treated for psoriasis of the scalp for a couple of years. Previously it had been treated as dandruff.
About 18 months ago he saw the GP. about joint swelling and pain, also mainly in the hands. At the age of 70 he half expected a diagnosis of osteo-arthritis but after lots of tests, including bloods, PA was diagnosed.
He was advised that the two principal drugs used to treat PA have some side effects but early treatment can prevent rapid progression and deterioration of the disease.
The drugs were Methotrexate and Sulphasalazine. My husband was already taking a cocktail of drugs for a heart condition and Sulphasalazine was eventually chosen.
The fact that a glass or two of wine ,or any other alchohol, could be a problem with Methotrexate might also have had something to do with the choice!
Sulphasalazine requires regular monitoring via blood tests, particularly in the early stages of treatment, because of its potential effect on liver function.
Twelve months on there have been no serious problems and no worsening of the joint problems, in fact some improvement.
My husband was given a lot of infirmative and very helpful written information about PA, treatment etc. throughout the diagnostic process through to prescribing . This came from both our GP Practice and the Consultant.
Best wishes to you in your treatment.