India Bolton spent her college years managing psoriasis, an autoimmune disease that causes inflamed patches of skin that can range from itchy to painful. Shortly after, while preparing for motherhood, she began to develop psoriatic arthritis (PsA).

“I first noticed something was wrong when I was pregnant with my first child three years ago,” Bolton shared. “I was constantly in pain, especially in my hips, feet, and hands. My doctor said it was normal during pregnancy. But after my daughter was born, it didn’t go away.”

It took nearly a year to receive an official diagnosis and several more months of trial and error to find effective symptom management.

About 30% of people with psoriasis eventually develop psoriatic arthritis—a statistic Bolton knew but never thought would apply to her so early in life.

Today, she reflects on the lessons she’s learned and the strength she’s found through the journey.

The Progression from Psoriasis to Psoriatic Arthritis

coping with the diagnosis
“I wish I knew it wasn’t as limiting as I feared,” Bolton said. “Psoriatic arthritis doesn’t stop me from being a mom. It’s hard sometimes—coloring with my daughter or holding my son’s bottle used to hurt a lot—but it doesn’t define me.”

While some activities cause discomfort, she focuses on planning and balance. “If we go out with friends or take a day trip, I know I’ll be sore for the next couple of days, but I plan for it. Self-care and rest are key.”

She admits it’s tough watching her peers live without pain. “I see friends hiking or bowling with no problem, while I deal with flare-ups afterward. Every activity comes with a cost, and I’ve learned to accept that.”

Living with Pain on the Bad Days

daily pain management
“I’m used to some level of pain,” she explained. “This morning my pain level was around 6 or 7 out of 10 because of swelling in my hand—I couldn’t even get my rings off. My hips are the worst.”

When pain peaks, she allows herself space to recover. “If it hits a 9 out of 10, I just sit in a warm Epsom salt bath. Sometimes, while shopping, a sudden pain tells me, ‘Nope, not today!’ and I have to stop and stretch.”

Bolton has learned that pacing herself and knowing when to rest make a big difference in managing chronic pain.

Getting Effective Treatment

exploring more than medication
“Treatment isn’t only about pharmaceuticals,” Bolton said. “Three months ago, I learned I have an MTHFR gene mutation that makes me react poorly to certain medications. Now I manage many symptoms naturally—with heating pads, Epsom salt baths, and Tylenol when needed.”

Her experience highlights how individualized psoriatic arthritis care can be. What works for one person may not work for another, so patience and persistence are essential.

Looking Ahead

protecting the next generation
Bolton’s biggest concern now is protecting her children. “I wish I’d known that strep throat can trigger psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis,” she said. “I had strep a lot as a kid, and that likely started my psoriasis. If I’d known, I would’ve asked my doctor about removing my tonsils.”

She understands that while psoriasis and PsA can be hereditary, preventing infections like strep might reduce the risk of triggering symptoms. “I just hope my kids never catch it—that’s my biggest wish for them.”