Symptoms of psoriatic arthritis in hands and feet
Symptoms of psoriatic arthritis in hands and feet Psoriatic arthritis (PsA) is a chronic autoimmune condition that affects some individuals with psoriasis, a skin disease characterized by red, scaly patches. When PsA involves the hands and feet, it can significantly impact daily activities, causing pain, swelling, and stiffness. Recognizing the symptoms early is crucial for effective management and preventing joint damage.
Symptoms of psoriatic arthritis in hands and feet One of the hallmark signs of psoriatic arthritis in the hands and feet is joint swelling. Patients often notice that the joints become visibly enlarged and tender to touch. This swelling is typically asymmetric, affecting some joints more than others, and can be accompanied by warmth and redness, indicating inflammation. In the fingers and toes, this swelling can lead to a characteristic appearance known as “sausage digits,” where entire fingers or toes become swollen, giving them a sausage-like look. This is called dactylitis and is a common feature of PsA.
Pain is another prominent symptom. Individuals may experience a persistent ache or throbbing sensation around affected joints. The pain can worsen with activity and improve with rest, although in some cases, it may persist even during periods of inactivity. Stiffness, especially in the morning or after periods of inactivity, is also common. This stiffness can last for more than 30 minutes and can make movement difficult. Symptoms of psoriatic arthritis in hands and feet
Beyond joint symptoms, psoriatic arthritis often involves enthesitis, which is inflammation at sites where tendons or ligaments attach to bones. In the hands and feet, this can manifest as tenderness and pain at the base of the fingers or toes, or where tendons cross joints. Patients may notice tender spots on the soles of their feet or around the back of their ankles, which can cause discomfort during walking or standing.
Symptoms of psoriatic arthritis in hands and feet Nail changes are frequently associated with PsA, especially in the hands. These may include pitting (small depressions on the nail surface), onycholysis (separation of the nail from the nail bed), or thickening. Such nail abnormalities can serve as an early warning sign and are often linked with joint symptoms.
Another less obvious but important symptom is fatigue, which many individuals report. The persistent inflammation can lead to a general feeling of tiredness and malaise, affecting overall well-being. Additionally, some patients may experience skin flares of psoriasis concurrently with joint symptoms, further signaling active disease. Symptoms of psoriatic arthritis in hands and feet
It is important to note that the severity and pattern of symptoms can vary widely among individuals. Some may experience mild discomfort, while others face debilitating joint damage if the condition is left untreated. Early diagnosis through clinical examination, medical history, and imaging studies can help initiate appropriate treatment, such as disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs), to control symptoms and prevent joint destruction.
In summary, psoriatic arthritis in the hands and feet presents with a range of symptoms, including joint swelling, pain, stiffness, dactylitis, enthesitis, nail changes, and systemic signs like fatigue. Recognizing these signs early can lead to better disease management and improved quality of life. Symptoms of psoriatic arthritis in hands and feet
