Spotlight on Psoriatic Arthritis: How to Spot the Disease

Psoriatic arthritis is kind of a hybrid of two cases affecting different systems of the body. This disease involves both the skin and the bones as both body parts become painful and inflamed. This condition generally starts to affect those who are in their 40s or 50s and there’s no telling if psoriasis or arthritis will emerge first. Most patients show symptoms of psoriasis first before arthritis hits. Some patients who develop arthritis also have a chance to develop psoriasis later on in life.

What causes this condition?

The cause of this condition in adults is not known for certain. It is not known for sure if all patients who have psoriasis will develop arthritis eventually or vice versa. Patients who develop the condition may have a genetic predisposition to the disease which was activated by environmental influences. There are several studies on patients with psoriasis and arthritis which identifies the chief gene involved in the disease. Soon, the gene can now be identified and spotted using blood tests.

Symptoms to help you spot psoriatic arthritis

1. You already have psoriasis, and have recently developed painful joints like the ones in the hands, knees and ankles. Most patients develop psoriasis first and have it for years before experiencing arthritis.

2. You already have arthritis, but recently developed patches of thick, scaly skin that peels in the areas where the painful joints are. Only a few experience having the arthritis come before the development of psoriasis.

3. You notice a change with your nails and skin condition. If you spot pits, ridges and discolorations on your nail and you already have arthritis, chances are, you have the condition. Pimples and acne that appear in patients with arthritis can be a sign of arthritis with psoriasis. These pimples usually appear in the hands, palms and feet of the person.

4. The tendency to develop other related conditions like tendonitis increases. Most patients with psoriasis and arthritis also develop tendonitis and other conditions like synovitis. These conditions are usually associated with inflamed joints and other parts of it.

If you have these symptoms, it is extremely important to have yourself checked by a medical specialist. Discuss the symptoms that you found and how you feel with your body. Tell the doctor honestly what’s painful. Do not hesitate to ask him or her questions. Try to cover all bases by finding out what you can about the condition. While this article can help you find the first tell-tale signs of psoriatic arthritis, consulting a professional is often the best move to be taken because there might be other things that you did not spot about your condition.

Do not self-medicate too. Self-medication is very dangerous and taking medicines should not be taken lightly. Consult your doctor regarding possible treatments for your condition. What your friend takes for her arthritis may not be compatible with your body.