Indicators and Symptoms of Psoriatic Arthritis

Psoriatic arthritis is an autoimmune condition that often develops in individuals with psoriasis, a skin disorder characterized by rapid skin cell growth. Excess skin forms scaly patches, known as flare-ups. About 30% of psoriasis patients may develop psoriatic arthritis, which causes joint inflammation and damage if untreated. This disease affects healthy joints, leading to pain and potential deformity. Recognizing early signs is crucial for management and prevention of long-term damage.

What are the key symptoms of psoriatic arthritis?
Symptoms often follow psoriasis, but not always. Key indicators include:

• Swelling: Similar to rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis causes swelling around joints, especially in fingers and toes, which may appear sausage-like before joint pain becomes noticeable. This swelling can be painful and may lead to deformities if untreated.
• Foot pain: Tendon inflammation is common. Achilles tendinitis and plantar fasciitis are frequent, causing heel and bottom-of-foot pain respectively. These conditions involve inflammation of tendons connecting calf muscles to the heel.
• Back discomfort: Inflammation between vertebrae or between pelvis and spine, known as psoriatic spondylitis, can cause lower back pain. About 20% of affected individuals experience this condition.
• Morning stiffness: Joint stiffness upon waking or after prolonged sitting can be intense, making movement difficult.
• Nail changes: Nail pitting, depression in nails, or separation from the nail bed are common in psoriatic arthritis, similar to psoriasis skin symptoms.