Why Doctors Kept Dismissing My Joint Pain — And How I Got Diagnosed With Psoriatic Arthritis at 26

Can you get arthritis in your 20s? The answer is yes — and Ayda's story proves it.In this powerful episode of THRIVING WITH ARTHRITIS, Dr. Diana Girnita sits down with Ayda, who was diagnosed with psoriatic arthritis at age 26 after months of severe joint pain, swollen fingers, and dismissive medical encounters. If you're a young adult experiencing unexplained joint pain, fatigue, or skin symptoms — this episode was made for you.Ayda opens up about the moment she knew something was deeply wrong, the frustration of being told "you're too young for arthritis," and the long road to finally receiving a proper diagnosis. Together, she and Dr. Girnita unpack what psoriatic arthritis really looks like in young adults, why it's so often missed, and what you can do right now to advocate for yourself.In this episode, you'll learn:What the early warning signs of psoriatic arthritis look like in your 20s and 30sWhy blood tests alone can't diagnose autoimmune arthritis — and what a clinical exam actually revealsHow to talk to your doctor when you feel dismissed or unheardThe truth about biologic medications, injections, and long-term side effectsWhether telemedicine or telehealth can effectively assess joint disease (spoiler: yes)How diet, lifestyle, and anti-inflammatory habits can reduce flaresWhat happened when Ayda finally started the right treatment — and got her life backThis episode is essential listening for anyone navigating a new autoimmune diagnosis, struggling with chronic joint pain, psoriasis or wondering whether their symptoms could be more than just stress or overuse.Whether you've been recently diagnosed with psoriatic arthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or are still searching for answers — you are not alone, and help is available.Subscribe for upcoming episodes on living well with arthritis and autoimmune disease. 💬 Leave a comment — have you experienced dismissal from doctors? Share your story below. Support the showMore info about Dr. Diana Girnita, MD PhDWebsite: https://rheumatologistoncall.com/Email: [email protected]: https://www.youtube.com/@rheumatologistoncallLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/diana-girnita-md-phd-07b57810/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rheumatologistoncall/Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/RheumatologistOncall/Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/3685130571554200