Identifying Signs and Symptoms of Psoriatic Arthritis

Psoriatic arthritis is a long-term autoimmune disorder affecting individuals with psoriasis. Psoriasis manifests as itchy, scaly skin patches, redness, and nail deterioration. Between 15% and 30% of psoriasis patients may develop this joint condition. While psoriasis often appears first, psoriatic arthritis can sometimes precede the skin symptoms.

Key Symptoms and Indications

Sausage-like swelling in fingers and toes – One hallmark feature is dactylitis or swelling in multiple fingers or toes, helping to distinguish it from rheumatoid arthritis, which usually involves isolated joint swelling.

Lower back discomfort – Patients often experience pain and stiffness in the lower back, especially above the tailbone. Some may develop spondylitis, resulting in joint inflammation between the vertebrae and pelvis, causing pain in the lower back, buttocks, neck, or upper back.

Joint pain, stiffness, or swelling – Multiple joints may become tender, red, warm, or stiff, indicating inflammation.

Foot and ankle discomfort – Enthesitis, or tenderness where tendons attach to bones, is common, causing heel pain (Achilles tendinitis), bottom foot pain (plantar fasciitis), or sometimes elbow discomfort (tennis elbow).

Skin and nail changes – Symptoms include thickened, red skin patches with silvery scales, and nail pitting or separation from the nail bed.

Reduced mobility and fatigue – Limited joint movement along with overall tiredness are typical.

Eye issues – Redness, irritation, vision problems, or conjunctivitis may indicate psoriatic activity.

Prompt recognition and management of these signs are vital to prevent joint damage and improve quality of life.