Psoriatic arthritis symptoms can be painful and debilitating. Psoriatic arthritis is a progressive condition that can affect up to thirty percent of people with psoriasis. Those with pustular psoriasis are particularly susceptible. It is also possible to develop psoriatic arthritis without ever having psoriasis previously.
Psoriatic arthritis symptoms usually begin between the ages of 30 and 50. The symptoms will usually begin about ten years after psoriasis begins. However, it can occur sooner or even strike young children.
It is thought that this is a disease of the immune system. It is possible that there is a genetic link that is triggered by the stress of an emotional, physical or physchological event.
What To Look For In Psoriatic Arthritis Symptoms?
Psoriatic arthritis symptoms include stiffness and pain in joints. As the disease progresses the joints begin to deteriorate. Other symptoms include red, inflammed lesions surrounding the joints that will be quite painful. The pain and swelling will usually be worse after rest. The skin around the joints may feel warmer to the touch than other areas of skin. One of the first symptoms of psoriatc arthritis is often seen in the fingernails or toenails. These irregularities can include the nail pulling from the nail bed, a yellow discoloration and unusual ridge patterns.
The inflamed joints of the hands and feet typically have a sausage-like look and they will be painful to move. Other common areas of inflammation are the skin surrounding the navel, scalp, elbows and knees. It can spread to the muscles of the heart, lungs and kidneys.
If you suspect you are experiencing psoriatic arthritis symptoms you should contact your doctor right away. With early treatment deterioration of the joints can be stopped with appropriate treatments. You should understand that as this condition progresses it will affect more than five joints and can severely hinder your quality of life. Without treatment the condition almost always gets progressively worse. If you now just have mild pain in one or two joints, it is likely to affect more joints and cause more pain as time goes on without treatment.
Don’t Delay Treatment of Psoriatic Arthritis Symptoms
If you are just suffering from psoriasis right now you should be aware of the psoriatic arthritis symptoms and watch for any aches and pains that are not explained by working out or other activity. Observe your nails for any changes as well, especially if you are in the 30-50 age group. Don’t forego talking to your doctor about any symptoms because it can quickly turn into a severe problem that could greatly affect your ability to do most things. There are appropriate treatments that can halt further psoriatic arthritis symptoms and the consequences they cause.