10 signs of psoriatic arthritis
10 signs of psoriatic arthritis Psoriatic arthritis is a chronic autoimmune condition that affects some individuals with psoriasis, a skin disease characterized by red, scaly patches. While psoriasis primarily appears on the skin, psoriatic arthritis involves inflammation of the joints, leading to discomfort and potential disability if not diagnosed early. Recognizing the signs of psoriatic arthritis can facilitate prompt treatment and help prevent joint damage. Here are ten key signs to be aware of.
10 signs of psoriatic arthritis One of the most common early indicators is joint pain and stiffness, especially in the mornings. People often notice that their joints feel stiff or tender for more than 30 minutes upon waking, which gradually eases with movement. This stiffness can be particularly noticeable in the fingers, toes, knees, or ankles, and may resemble symptoms of other forms of arthritis but with distinctive patterns.
10 signs of psoriatic arthritis Swelling in the fingers and toes is another hallmark sign. Unlike typical swelling, psoriatic arthritis often causes “sausage digits,” where entire fingers or toes become swollen and sausage-like. This swelling is due to inflammation in the joints and surrounding tissues and may be accompanied by warmth and redness.
Another key sign involves the appearance of pitted or ridged nails. Nail changes are common in psoriatic arthritis and can include pitting, where small dents form on the nail surface, or onycholysis, where nails loosen or detach from the nail bed. These nail changes often occur alongside skin psoriasis but can sometimes be the only visible sign of the disease.
Enthesitis, which is inflammation at the sites where tendons or ligaments attach to bones, often presents as pain or tenderness in areas like the heels (Achilles tendon) or the bottom of the foot (plantar fasciitis). This symptom can cause significant discomfort and may be mistaken for overuse injuries. 10 signs of psoriatic arthritis
Joint redness and warmth are signs of active inflammation. In psoriatic arthritis, affected joints may appear red and feel warm to the touch, indicating ongoing inflammatory processes. These signs are usually localized but can sometimes involve multiple joints simultaneously, leading to a more widespread discomfort.
Another sign is the development of dactylitis, or “sausage digit,” which involves swelling of an entire finger or toe. This condition often causes pain and difficulty in movement and is considered quite characteristic of psoriatic arthritis.
Fatigue and general malaise are common in many autoimmune diseases, including psoriatic arthritis. Patients may experience persistent tiredness, low energy, and a feeling of being unwell, which can impact daily activities and quality of life.
People with psoriatic arthritis may also notice eye problems, such as redness, pain, or sensitivity to light. Uveitis or conjunctivitis can occur as part of the systemic inflammation, warranting prompt ophthalmologic evaluation.
In some cases, psoriatic arthritis causes spinal involvement, leading to back pain and stiffness. This axial form of the disease affects the spine and sacroiliac joints, resulting in chronic back discomfort and reduced mobility. 10 signs of psoriatic arthritis
10 signs of psoriatic arthritis Finally, skin psoriasis often precedes joint symptoms but can sometimes appear after joint involvement begins. Persistent or recurrent skin plaques, especially if accompanied by joint symptoms, should prompt evaluation for psoriatic arthritis.
Early recognition of these signs and symptoms is crucial for effective management. If you experience joint pain, swelling, nail changes, or skin psoriasis, consulting a healthcare professional is essential for proper diagnosis and treatment to prevent joint damage and improve quality of life.
