Can psoriatic arthritis make you feel sick
Can psoriatic arthritis make you feel sick Psoriatic arthritis is a chronic autoimmune condition that primarily affects the joints and skin, but its impact on overall well-being can extend far beyond these areas. Many individuals diagnosed with psoriatic arthritis wonder whether they might also feel sick overall, and the answer is often yes. This sensation of feeling unwell can be attributed to a combination of factors related to the disease itself, its systemic effects, and the medications used to manage it.
Can psoriatic arthritis make you feel sick At its core, psoriatic arthritis involves an abnormal immune response in which the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissues, particularly the joints and skin. This immune activation triggers inflammation that can be widespread, not limited to just the joints. Systemic inflammation often leads to fatigue, malaise, and a general feeling of being unwell, which can be mistaken for or coexist with other illnesses. Patients frequently report feeling tired, weak, or even feverish, especially during flare-ups when inflammation intensifies.
Fever and chills are common symptoms during active disease phases, as the body’s immune response ramps up. This inflammatory response releases cytokines—chemical messengers that coordinate immune activity—into the bloodstream. Elevated cytokines can cause a feeling of illness, similar to how infections make us feel sick. Though psoriatic arthritis is not contagious, its systemic inflammatory activity can produce symptoms that mimic those of an infection or other systemic illnesses.
Can psoriatic arthritis make you feel sick Another aspect contributing to the sensation of feeling sick is the impact of chronic pain and discomfort. Persistent joint pain, swelling, and stiffness can be physically draining, leading to decreased activity levels, sleep disturbances, and emotional stress. Over time, these factors can contribute to a sense of exhaustion or malaise. Sleep disturbances are common among psoriatic arthritis sufferers because joint pain and skin symptoms often interfere with restful sleep, further amplifying feelings of fatigue and sickness.
Medication side effects also play a role. Many drugs used to control psoriatic arthritis, such as biologics or immunosuppressants, can cause side effects including nausea, fatigue, or flu-like symptoms. These side effects can sometimes make patients feel worse before they feel better, adding to the overall impression of being unwell. Can psoriatic arthritis make you feel sick
Can psoriatic arthritis make you feel sick Moreover, psoriatic arthritis often coexists with other conditions such as depression, cardiovascular disease, and metabolic syndrome. The burden of multiple chronic illnesses can contribute to feelings of fatigue, malaise, and general sickness. The psychological toll of living with a long-term autoimmune disease can also influence how one perceives their health, often amplifying feelings of being unwell.
Managing psoriatic arthritis effectively involves controlling inflammation and addressing symptoms holistically. Treatments include NSAIDs for pain, disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs), biologics, and lifestyle changes such as regular exercise, healthy diet, and stress management. Proper treatment can significantly reduce systemic inflammation, thereby alleviating feelings of sickness and improving overall quality of life.
In conclusion, psoriatic arthritis can indeed make you feel sick, especially during flares when inflammation is heightened. The systemic nature of the disease means its effects extend beyond joint symptoms, impacting energy levels, mood, sleep, and overall health. Recognizing these symptoms and seeking appropriate treatment can help manage not only joint health but also the broader sense of well-being. Can psoriatic arthritis make you feel sick
