Psoriatic arthritis is a painful autoimmune disease. Fortunately, you can learn everything you need to know about psoriatic arthritis with a search online right now, which could help you spot early symptoms and fast-track treatment.
Spotting the signs of psoriatic arthritis early is key to treating this condition. General symptoms include swelling, stiffness, and pain, but there are many other signs to be aware of. Luckily, treatment options can help you manage these symptoms.
Symptoms
Affecting joints on one or both sides of the body, psoriatic arthritis resembles rheumatoid arthritis in that it causes the joints to become swollen and painful. The psoriasis starts either before or after the arthritis which results in red, scaly rashes and thick pitted fingernails, notes John Hopkins Medicine. 1
Foot pain, lower back pain, fatigue, swelling pain around tendons, stiffness, limited range of motion, plus red and painful eyes are other potential symptoms of psoriatic arthritis. While not everyone experiences these symptoms, they may be a first sign of psoriatic arthritis.
Causes
In general, psoriatic arthritis is an autoimmune disease that causes the body’s immune system to mistakenly attack healthy tissue, explains the Arthritis Foundation. 2 This results in inflammation, pain, and eventually joint damage. To this day, researchers aren’t entirely sure why it happens, but the Mayo Clinic says it’s likely a combination of environmental and genetic factors. 3
Many people suffering from psoriatic arthritis have a family history of psoriasis or psoriatic arthritis. Researchers have found specific genetic markers associated with psoriatic arthritis. The source also adds that physical trauma or exposure to environmental factors such as viral or bacterial infections may trigger psoriatic arthritis in people with a genetic predisposition.
Medical Treatments
If left untreated, the inflammation of psoriatic arthritis can lead to joint and tissue damage which is why it’s imperative people with this condition seek medical care. Plus, Johns Hopkins Medicine points out that early diagnosis and treatment is key in preventing joint damage.
There are several over-the-counter (OTC) and prescription medications, as well as topical medications. Some more popular medications include Taltz and Skyrizi. In severe cases, people will use therapy UVA light to ease skin symptoms or surgery to repair joint damage.
Lifestyle and Home Remedies
In addition to medical treatment, there are a number of things people can do to manage their symptoms at home. Follow these lifestyle tips:
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Stop smoking
- Limit alcohol
- Exercise regularly
By following these tips and consulting with a medical professional, you can maintain a higher quality of life.
