Questions and Answers

Psoriasis and arthritis

Date: 5 Aug 1996 20:29:56 GMT

560  Psoriasis and arthritis

I have had in the past a mild case of psoriasis. It was treated
my a dermatologist, and went into remission. This past>spring during the
public service strike, while walking the picket
line I began to experience sore feet and knees, as well as a
very painful left wrist. I put it down to "strike related" since
we were walking in 30 degree weather on pavement for 3 to
6 hours a day.

When the strike ended, the pain somewhat subsided, and routines
returned. The pain returned about 2 months ago but worse. My>feet were
very sore, knees, and wrists and lower back. I recently went to a
specialist who feels it is arthritis related to
the psoriasis. I wonder what the long term prognosis is. I am on
10 mg of Methotexrate once a week, and 500mg Naxan b.i.d.,
along with 1mg folic acid once daily. I find the medication somewhat
troubling, as I am experiencing some mood swings, and what I
describe as very mild aphasia.

I am 37 years old, and psoriasis and arthritis are both prevalent on both
sides of my family. Have you any words of wisdom or encouragemen?.

 Answered by Myron B. Lezak, M.D., Gastroenterologist

Words of encouragement.  Though psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis may have
genetic determinants, the course of the illness may be altered considerably
by proper attention to life-style, nutrition, and stress-alleviation.  A
program of colon detoxification with high fiber, fresh whole foods
including fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains and avoidance of processed
grains, refined sugars, partially hydrogenated vegetable oils is very
important.  Use of Essential Fatty Acids in the form of Borage or Evening
Primrose Oil and flaxseed oil or fish oil (called EPA/DHA) as well as
Vitamin A 25000 Units, Zinc chelate 30 mg, Vitamin E 800 I.U., Vitamin C
1gm three times daily, selenium 200mcg and the use of an herb called
Silymarin or Milk Thistle three times daily are all helpful both with the
Psoriasis and the Arthritis and do not have the potential for toxicity that
your present treatment program has.

PLEASE NOTE:  The information contained on this system is 
not intended to supplant  individual professional consultation. 
It is offered solely as a community education service.  Advice on 
individual problems should be obtained directly  from a professional.

--
"Life is like cycling ... you have to keep going to keep your balance."
      						       	(Albert Einstein)