What are the Symptoms of Psoriatic Arthritis?
October 16, 2023 | by Sravani Pathakamuri | Posted in FAQ's
Psoriatic arthritis (PsA) is a type of inflammatory arthritis that can affect individuals with psoriasis, a chronic skin condition. Psoriatic arthritis presents with a variety of symptoms that can affect the skin, joints, and other parts of the body. Common symptoms of psoriatic arthritis may include:
- Joint Pain and Stiffness: Pain, tenderness, and stiffness in the joints, which can worsen with rest and improve with movement.
- Swollen Joints: Swelling in the fingers, toes, or larger joints like knees and ankles, often accompanied by warmth and redness.
- Morning Stiffness: Stiffness and reduced range of motion, especially in the morning or after periods of inactivity.
- Fatigue: Persistent fatigue or a feeling of general tiredness, which can significantly impact daily activities.
- Nail Changes: Nail pitting, ridges, thickening, or discoloration of the nails, often accompanied by separation of the nail from the nail bed.
- Enthesitis: Inflammation at the points where tendons or ligaments attach to bones, causing pain and tenderness at these sites.
- Dactylitis (Sausage Fingers or Toes): Swelling of an entire finger or toe, giving a sausage-like appearance.
- Skin Lesions: Psoriasis skin lesions, such as red, scaly patches of skin with silvery scales, which may worsen during PsA flares.
- Eye Inflammation (Uveitis): Inflammation of the eye, causing eye pain, redness, sensitivity to light, and blurred vision.
- Back Pain and Spinal Involvement: Pain and stiffness in the lower back, neck, or sacroiliac joints (sacroiliitis).
- Difficulty Walking: Difficulty walking or performing daily activities due to joint pain, stiffness, and swelling.
- Reduced Range of Motion: Limited movement in affected joints, which can affect mobility and flexibility.
- Tenderness: Tender or painful joints, especially upon touch or pressure.
It’s important to note that psoriatic arthritis can vary in its presentation and severity from person to person. Some individuals may experience mild symptoms, while others may have more severe joint damage and disability. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment are essential for managing psoriatic arthritis and reducing its impact on quality of life. If you suspect you may have psoriatic arthritis or are experiencing symptoms consistent with it, it’s crucial to consult a healthcare professional for a thorough evaluation and appropriate management.