Before we discuss the symptoms of psoriatic arthritis, lets first talk about what it is.
Psoriatic arthritis is a slow, progressive disease which is characterized by the inflammation of the joints and the surrounding skin. Statistics have revealed that at least 2% of the Caucasian population in the United States is affected by this condition.
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| Image Credit : medicinenet.com |
Just like all the other kinds of arthritis conditions, early detection is very important for
psoriatic arthritis. The earlier the disease is detected, the better are the chances of alleviating the symptoms of the disease.
So read on and learn about the most common symptoms of this disease. Pain and Swelling in the Extremities.
This is perhaps the most common and the most obvious signs of psoriatic arthritis. Pain and swelling may occur in one or two joints at a time. Joints usually become painful, hot and red commonly affecting the ankles, knees and the wrists. The tip of the toes and the fingers also become swelled, looking almost sausage-like. However, pain and swelling is a very common and non-specific symptom and will not immediately point to the condition.
Pain in the Lower Back.
A sharp pain at the back and around the buttocks is also one of the most common symptoms of psoriatic arthritis. This is mainly brought about by the inflammation of the joints around the area. Lower back pains can lead to limitation or even the complete loss of mobility.
Joint Stiffness.
Aside from the swelling and the pain, the joints can also become stiff and rigid - which can lead to immobility. Joint stiffness is usually at its worst during the morning and patients with this kind of condition will have difficulty moving and getting out of bed. This particular symptom is very common in patients with rheumatoid arthritis as well.
Spondylitis.
One of the more definite symptoms of psoriatic arthritis is spondylitis or the inflammation of the spine. This can also lead to pain and stiffness around the buttocks, lower and upper back area and the neck.
Inflammation of the tendons and cartilages.
Psoriatic arthritis can also affect and inflame tendons and cartilages. The most common outcome from this is a condition called, Achilles tendinitis. Achilles tendinitis is brought about by the inflammation of the tendons in the heel. Patients who acquire Achilles tendinitis have difficulty climbing up stairs and walking. Inflammation of the cartilage connecting the ribs to the sternum can also lead to chest pains and pain in breathing.
Nail Pitting.
Nail pitting is also one of the more common symptoms of psoriatic arthritis. This symptom has been observed in almost 80% of the psoriatic arthritis patients. Nail pitting is the presence of small depressed ridges in both the finger and toe nails. Nails can also have abnormal discoloration and thickness.
Inflammation of the Eye.
Psoriatic arthritis can also produce a condition called Iritis. Iritis is the inflammation of the iris (the colored potion of the eye).This is a very painful condition that can be aggravated by the presence of bright light and
if left untreated, can possibly lead to blindness.
Treatment for psoriatic arthritis is generally a
combination of exercise and anti-inflammatory drugs. So remember, always be on the lookout for these common symptoms of psoriatic arthritis to get immediate necessary treatment.
