Recognizing Symptoms of Psoriatic Arthritis
Psoriatic arthritis is a condition linked to psoriasis, causing joint swelling, tendon pain, and nail changes. Recognizing early symptoms like morning stiffness and back pain is essential for prompt treatment to prevent joint damage and improve quality of life.
Psoriatic arthritis is an autoimmune condition often associated 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 develop psoriatic arthritis, which attacks healthy joints, causing inflammation. If untreated, it can cause irreversible joint damage. Symptoms may include swelling—especially in toes and fingers—pain in tendons like Achilles tendinitis and plantar fasciitis, lower back pain from psoriatic spondylitis, morning stiffness, and nail abnormalities such as pitting or separation from the nail bed. Early diagnosis is vital for effective management.
