Signs to Watch out for Psoriatic Arthritis
Psoriasis is an autoimmune disease characterized by skin cells developing too quickly. Excess skin cells lead to the creation of skin lesions. Every 3 in 10 people who are suffering from psoriasis end up contracting psoriatic arthritis. Psoriatic arthritis is an autoimmune condition characterized by the body attacking healthy joints. This results in inflammation. If not treated, this can cause permanent damage to the joints. You may or may not develop the symptoms of psoriatic arthritis when you first contract the disease and this makes its detection quite difficult.
Signs and symptoms of psoriatic arthritis
Swelling – One of the most common symptoms of the disease is the unique swelling it causes in the fingers and toes. A sausage-like swelling appears in the toes and fingers if you are suffering from the condition. Visit a doctor immediately if you are suffering from the same as it is quite painful and can lead to permanent deformities if left untreated.
Pain in your feet – While the autoimmune condition causes swelling and joint pain, it is more likely to cause pain in the tendons. Tendons are muscles attached to the bones. Plantar fasciitis and Achilles tendinitis are the two most common tendon affecting conditions associated with psoriasis arthritis.
Back pain – Every 2 in 10 people suffering from psoriasis arthritis suffer from joint inflammation between the pelvis and the spine and between the spine’s vertebrae.
Morning stiffness – Another common sign and symptom of psoriatic arthritis is the feeling of morning stiffness. You may wake up in the morning and find it hard to move the joints on both sides of the body. You feel stiff and inflexible and you might find it difficult to move. You may also suffer from stiffness when you sit in one place for too long.
The condition of psoriatic arthritis symptoms pictures a grim tale if not treated properly. They may or may not appear during the initial contraction of the autoimmune condition. It is of grave importance to visit a doctor immediately after you recognize the psoriatic arthritis signs and symptoms. You can immediately conclude that you are suffering from psoriatic arthritis if you notice a sausage-like swelling in your toes and fingers. This can be extremely painful and can lead to permanent deformities down the line. Therefore, immediate medical consultation is strongly recommended if you notice any of the aforementioned psoriatic arthritis signs and symptoms.