Recognizing Key Symptoms of Psoriatic Arthritis You Shouldn't Ignore

Psoriatic arthritis is an autoimmune condition often associated with psoriasis, affecting the joints and causing inflammation. About 30% of people with psoriasis develop this joint disorder, which can lead to irreversible joint damage if untreated. It presents various symptoms, including swelling of the fingers and toes, often resembling sausages, and intense joint pain, especially in the tendons. Other signs include lower back pain from associated spondylitis, morning stiffness, and nail changes like pitting or separation from the nail bed. Early diagnosis is crucial for effective management.

What are the main symptoms of psoriatic arthritis?
While many with psoriatic arthritis experience psoriasis first, symptoms can vary. Common signs include:

Swelling: Swelling in fingers and toes, giving a sausage-like appearance, often occurs before joint pain is noticeable. Ignoring this can cause deformities over time.

Pain in the feet: Tendon inflammation leads to persistent foot pain. Achilles tendinitis and plantar fasciitis are frequent occurrences, with the former affecting the Achilles tendon connecting calf muscles to the heel, and the latter inflaming the tissue under the foot.

Back discomfort: Inflammation between spinal vertebrae or pelvis can result in lower back pain, with about 20% of patients also developing psoriatic spondylitis.

Morning stiffness: stiffness after waking, making joint movement difficult, especially after sitting or lying down for extended periods.

Nail changes: Nail pitting, depression, or separation from the nail bed might occur, similar to psoriasis, indicating joint involvement.

If experiencing these symptoms, prompt medical consultation is essential for proper diagnosis and treatment.