Psoriatic Arthritis (PsA)

Understanding Psoriatic Arthritis (PsA)

Psoriatic Arthritis (PsA) is a chronic inflammatory autoimmune disease that affects both the joints and skin, causing pain, swelling, and stiffness in the joints along with the characteristic skin symptoms of psoriasis. It is part of the spondyloarthritis family and can cause progressive joint damage if left untreated.

PsA develops when the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy joints and connective tissue, leading to inflammation and joint destruction. It often occurs in individuals with psoriasis, but joint symptoms can sometimes appear before skin lesions.

Common Signs and Symptoms of PsA:

• Joint Pain and Stiffness:

  • Swollen, tender joints (commonly in the fingers, toes, knees, or spine).
  • Morning stiffness lasting longer than 30 minutes.

• Skin and Nail Changes:

  • Psoriasis plaques (red, scaly patches on the skin).
  • Nail pitting, discoloration, or separation from the nail bed.

• Enthesitis (Tendon and Ligament Inflammation):

  • Pain where tendons attach to bones, especially in the heels, elbows, and knees.

• Dactylitis (“Sausage Fingers or Toes”):

  • Swelling of an entire finger or toe due to severe joint and tendon inflammation.

• Fatigue and Malaise:

  • Chronic inflammation can cause severe fatigue, brain fog, and weakness.

• Spinal and Sacroiliac Involvement:

  • Some forms of PsA cause lower back pain and stiffness, similar to ankylosing spondylitis.

This information is provided as a resource and is not intended to diagnose a condition or prescribe treatment. Please discuss any symptoms you may exhibit with your physician.