Happy to join this community

Hi everyone - so long family history of psoriasis (grandmother, mother, brother) but no PsA that I know of.

Psoriatic arthritis without psoriasis

I do not have psoriasis but was diagnosed with PsA about 3 years ago - mostly due to the most amazing fatigue I could imagine. Thought that I was losing my mind!

Had a baby at 44 (he's amazing and 12 now) and was diagnosed not long after with Hashimoto's (cold ALL the time, hair falling out, unrelenting fatigue). Once diagnosed for this one - it was easy for me - just get the dosage right and on we go.

Surgeries

Next is a bit of a long story, but over the course of about 6 years or so each of my shoulders became damaged and needed biceps tenodesis surgery. At the time - I had no idea why both of my biceps tendons became dislocated. Now I think it was related to undiagnosed PsA. Has anyone else had this issue?
Then after each surgery, I had a severe frozen shoulder which required about 2 years of regular physiotherapy (and a lot of crying!) to get through.

Finally was diagnosed about 3 years ago with PsA, when my ANA numbers were showing low during blood testing.

Treatment for psoriatic arthritis

Have tried a lot of different therapies - none of which worked. Xeljanz, Hydrochloroquine, Methotrexate, (yuck), and a few others. Started with Cosentyx about 8 months ago and have to say life is a lot better.

The fatigue was so much better within a few weeks. The joint pain in my hips and feet is still there but a lot better with each dose. I have had none of the side effects described in this forum.

Eating well and exercising

I think there are a few keys for me - the medication for sure, but also a very clean diet, and regular exercise. I think regular pilates has been a lifesaver for me. Keeps my range of motion, builds muscle strength and flexibility, and is great for my mind and mood.

That's all - hope I can help someone with my story!