Tips For Better Sleep For People With Psoriatic Arthritis

Psoriatic arthritis is associated with symptoms that impair the quality of life of the person with it. Indeed, patients need certain strategies to minimize the adverse effects of symptoms. Today we look at tips for better sleep if you suffer from psoriatic arthritis.

According to a study by Dr. Kristina Callis Duffin, a professor of dermatology at the University of Utah, itching and pain caused by psoriatic arthritis can lead to poor sleep quality. This in turn increases stress and exhaustion during the day. In addition, these patients are at risk for more severe sleep disorders, such as sleep apnea.

What is psoriatic arthritis?

Before we take a closer look at the tips for better sleep, let’s briefly review the basic features of psoriatic arthritis. Psoriatic arthritis is a disease in which there is joint pain, swelling and psoriasis.

Psoriasis is a skin condition characterized by red, scaly patches on the skin and scalp. An estimated 30% of psoriasis cases correspond to psoriatic arthritis.

Psoriatic arthritis can be divided into several subtypes:

• Symmetrical: This type of arthritis affects the same joints on both sides of the body. Its symptoms are similar to those of rheumatoid arthritis.
• Asymmetrical: This affects one or more joints on the other side of the body. The patient may also suffer from redness of the joints.
• Limb tip joint disease: Affects joints near the nails.
• Spondylitis: Affects the spine and can cause pain when moving.
• Mutilans form of psoriatic arthritis: This is one of the most difficult forms. It can cause deformities of the palms and feet.

Symptoms of psoriasis joint

Symptoms can vary from person to person and can even occur intermittently. Sometimes the symptoms are mild and sometimes they get worse.

The most common symptoms are:

• Inflammation and tenderness of the joints
• Morning stiffness
• Muscle pain
• Exfoliating skin areas
• Exfoliating scalp
• Fatigue
• Nail splitting from the nail bed
• Redness of the eyes (conjunctivitis)

Psoriatic arthritis and sleep

Recent studies suggest that psoriatic arthritis may affect sleep quality.

A 2017 study found that 84% of people with psoriatic arthritis sleep poorly. Symptoms such as itching, pain and stress can significantly interfere with sleep.

Although the disease does not directly cause insomnia, its symptoms can adversely affect sleep. Patients often have difficulty following a regular sleep schedule and their sleep is interrupted. They are also at higher risk for obstructive sleep apnea.

Tips for better sleep for people with psoriatic arthritis

If you suffer from psoriatic arthritis, use these strategies. In fact, your doctor may recommend many of them during a medical examination.

1. Wear comfortable clothing

Cotton is a breathable material that feels comfortable on the skin.

Choosing the right clothes can improve sleep if you suffer from psoriatic arthritis. To keep your skin dry and not itchy, choose loose-fitting clothing made of cotton or silk. Such materials prevent skin irritation during sleep.

2. Try heat or cold treatment

Heat or cold therapy is one way to relax your joints before going to bed.

Cold works best for some people, while hot is better for others. Try both options and choose the one that helps you more. You can use both temperatures alternately if you wish.

3. Moisturize the skin

Applying creams and oils to the skin before going to bed keeps the skin moisturized and reduces discomfort.

One of the easiest ways to keep your skin symptoms under control is to moisturize your skin regularly. If your symptoms tend to get worse at night, use a moisturizer before going to bed. Choose natural options such as coconut oil or shea butter.

4. Take advantage of relaxation techniques

Yoga, meditation, and other relaxation techniques are great options for improving sleep quality if you suffer from psoriatic arthritis.

These methods relax the joints and reduce the stress caused by the symptoms. You can do relaxation exercises half an hour before going to bed.

5. Take advantage of aromatherapy

Aromatherapy relaxes the body. You can use it to reduce the symptoms of many diseases.

Due to their properties, some essential oils are suitable for relieving stress and other symptoms caused by psoriatic arthritis. Aromatherapy can even help reduce pain.

For example, use the following essential oils:

• Lavender
• Chamomile
• Mint
• Lemon
• Sandalwood
• Rosemary

Be sure to discuss your sleep problems with your doctor, as it is very important that your doctor examines you for possible obstructive sleep apnea.