Psoriatic Arthritis and Vertigo
Psoriatic arthritis (PsA) is an autoimmune condition that affects the joints and the skin. Many people with PsA also have vertigo or dizziness. There is not a lot of research about the link between the 2, but here is what scientists have learned so far.1-4
What is psoriatic arthritis?
PsA is a type of arthritis that affects about 1 in 3 people with psoriasis. Psoriasis is a skin condition characterized by thick, scaly patches of skin that itch. People with PsA have the skin symptoms of psoriasis along with symptoms like:1
- Joint pain and tenderness
- Redness around the affected joints
- Swelling
- Fatigue
Both psoriasis and PsA are autoimmune disorders, in which the body starts to attack its own healthy cells. Autoimmune conditions are not contagious, but they may run in families. About 40 percent of people with PsA have a family member with the same condition.1,2
The number of people diagnosed with an autoimmune condition has grown over the past 20 years. An estimated 6 to 8 percent of people in Western countries have an autoimmune disease.2,4
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View all responsesWhat is vertigo?
Vertigo is a type of dizziness typically caused by problems with the inner ear. The inner ear has two main parts: the cochlea and the vestibular system. The cochlea helps us hear. The vestibular system helps us keep our balance. This system has sensors that determine how we respond to gravity, the position of our head, and movement.5
When these sensors cannot communicate properly, the inner ear cannot help us maintain balance. This causes vertigo. During an episode of vertigo, a person may feel as if the room is spinning. They may be unable to sit or stand, and they may feel nauseous.3-5
How are vertigo and psoriatic arthritis connected?
A 2018 study found that people with autoimmune conditions, including PsA, are more likely to experience vertigo.3,4
Researchers believe that the ear is particularly sensitive to inflammatory conditions. When the body’s immune system attacks itself, the cochlea and vestibular systems react. Hearing loss and vertigo can be the result.3,4
There has been little research into the link between autoimmune conditions and vertigo. And there are no specific tests that can detect the inner ear problem that might cause vertigo. As a result, doctors may overlook the link between the two conditions.3,4
How is vertigo treated?
Your doctor can advise you about how to treat PsA, depending on your particular symptoms. Treatments for PsA may include:1
- Prescription medicines to help slow the progress of tissue damage and to reduce inflammation
- Steroids to reduce inflammation. Steroids can take the form of a skin cream, oral tablet, or injection
- Over-the-counter medicines, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, to ease pain
- Cold or heat therapy
- Physical therapy
- Dietary changes to avoid foods that may trigger inflammation
- Gentle exercise
Your doctor can also suggest specific ways to manage vertigo. Options include:5
- Prescription medicine you can take during an attack
- Certain exercises to help the inner ear regulate
While there is no cure for PsA or vertigo, your doctor can help you find the best ways to manage your condition.
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