Psoriatic arthritis (PsA) is an inflammatory autoimmune disease that affects the joints and skin, often causing pain, swelling, and stiffness. It can occur in people who already have psoriasis, a skin condition that causes red, scaly patches, although not everyone with psoriasis will develop PsA. Early detection of PsA is crucial to managing symptoms and preventing joint damage. Understanding the signs and symptoms of psoriatic arthritis can help you seek treatment early and improve your quality of life.
1. Joint Pain and Swelling
One of the primary symptoms of psoriatic arthritis is joint pain, which can affect any joint in the body. The pain is often described as a dull, aching sensation, and it may worsen with activity or after periods of inactivity. The inflammation caused by PsA can also lead to visible swelling around the affected joints, which may make the joints appear larger than normal.
Unlike typical arthritis, PsA often affects the joints at the tips of the fingers and toes, leading to a condition called “dactylitis,” or “sausage digits,” where the entire finger or toe becomes swollen. In more severe cases, PsA can affect the knees, hips, spine, and other joints, causing significant discomfort and reduced mobility.
2. Stiffness, Especially in the Morning
People with psoriatic arthritis often experience stiffness in the affected joints, particularly in the morning or after prolonged periods of inactivity. This stiffness can last for more than an hour and can make it difficult to move or perform daily tasks. The stiffness may ease as the day progresses or after some gentle movement or stretching.
This symptom is a common feature of many forms of arthritis and can be easily mistaken for general joint pain or age-related stiffness. However, in PsA, the stiffness tends to be more persistent and may be accompanied by pain and swelling.
3. Psoriasis Flare-Ups
Since psoriatic arthritis is closely related to psoriasis, many people with PsA have visible psoriasis flare-ups on their skin. Psoriasis causes red, scaly patches of skin, commonly found on the scalp, elbows, knees, and lower back. These patches are often itchy and can become inflamed, painful, or cracked.
While not everyone with psoriasis will develop psoriatic arthritis, a significant percentage of people with PsA do have a history of psoriasis. If you have psoriasis and notice new joint pain or swelling, it could indicate the development of PsA.
4. Fatigue and General Malaise
Fatigue is another common symptom of psoriatic arthritis that many people with the condition report. This fatigue is often more than just feeling tired and can be overwhelming, making it difficult to perform daily activities. It may be caused by the body’s inflammatory response or as a side effect of managing chronic pain.
In addition to fatigue, people with PsA often experience a general feeling of being unwell, also known as malaise. This can manifest as a sense of discomfort or ill health that persists over time, often affecting mood and quality of life.
5. Nail Changes
Psoriatic arthritis can also cause changes in the nails, a symptom that is often overlooked but can be quite telling. Nail changes associated with PsA include:
- Pitting: Small depressions or “pits” on the surface of the nails, which can resemble the texture of an orange peel.
- Discoloration: The nails may become discolored, developing a yellow-brown tint.
- Separation: In some cases, the nail may begin to separate from the nail bed, a condition known as onycholysis.
- Thickening: The nails may become thickened or ridged.
These changes are particularly common in the nails of the fingers and toes and can be an early sign of PsA, especially when they occur alongside other symptoms like joint pain or stiffness.
6. Lower Back Pain
Psoriatic arthritis can also affect the spine, particularly the lower back and the sacroiliac joints (the joints between the spine and pelvis). This can lead to pain and stiffness in the lower back, a condition known as spondylitis. The pain may be worse in the morning or after periods of inactivity and can improve with movement.
In some cases, the inflammation of the spine can lead to a decrease in flexibility, making it harder to bend or twist the back. Spondylitis is a less common but still important symptom of PsA and can be a sign that the condition is affecting the spine.
7. Eye Inflammation
In some cases, psoriatic arthritis can cause inflammation in the eyes, leading to a condition known as uveitis or iritis. This can cause symptoms such as:
- Redness in the eye
- Pain or discomfort
- Blurry vision
- Sensitivity to light
Eye inflammation should be taken seriously, as it can lead to permanent vision damage if left untreated. If you experience eye discomfort along with other symptoms of PsA, seek medical attention immediately.
Early Recognition and Treatment of Psoriatic Arthritis for Better Management
Psoriatic arthritis is a chronic condition that affects both the skin and joints, causing pain, inflammation, and stiffness. Recognizing the early symptoms of PsA, such as joint pain, skin flare-ups, nail changes, and fatigue, can help you seek early intervention and start treatment before the disease progresses. If you suspect that you might have psoriatic arthritis or are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to consult with a healthcare provider. Early diagnosis and treatment can help manage the symptoms, slow the progression of the disease, and improve your overall quality of life.
