5 Complications Black Folks with PA Face (And What to Do!)

A chronic autoimmune condition, Psoriatic arthritis (PA) is certainly no fun, especially when it really starts to hurt! From bothersome inflammation to pain and pesky stiffness in the joints, PA can impact people of all races and ethnicities, but may be especially problematic for Black sufferers. And we’re talking symptoms and complications, beyond the typical joint pain and purple-brown flakes.  This unique set of challenges and complications may even require specialized attention and care, and can hit you when you least expect it.  Here are five lesser-known complications that impact Black individuals with PA, and some ways you can manage them!  1. High Cholesterol I’m sure you’ve heard of high cholesterol, which can lead to all kinds of issues. Turns out, Black individuals with psoriatic arthritis are at a higher risk of dealing with high cholesterol levels, and from there, problems like strokes, heart attacks, coronary artery disease, and hypertension can all result.  If this complication goes unnoticed, it may especially lead to serious issues. To combat high cholesterol, it’s crucial that you adopt heart-healthy habits such as consuming a balanced diet low in saturated fats and cholesterol, getting some good ol’ exercise, and, if necessary, taking prescribed medicines for...