PsA occurs because the immune system malfunctions and starts affecting healthy tissues.
Many people with PsA also havepsoriasis, an autoimmune skin condition that causes skin cell overgrowth.
This article covers psoriatic arthritis symptoms, types, causes, flares, treatment, and more.
Jacques Hugo / Getty Images
Jacques Hugo / Getty Images
Psoriatic Arthritis Symptoms
The symptoms of PsA range from mild to severe.
It is possible to have more than one of the following types:
What Causes Psoriatic Arthritis?
PsA pops up if the immune system malfunctions and attacks healthy tissues.
Reproduced with permission from ©DermNet NZ www.dermnetnz.org 2022
The overactive immune responses cause inflammation of the joints and entheses.
It might also cause the overproduction of skin cells.
Such factors include smoking, certain medications, physical trauma, illness, or infection.
Reproduced with permission from ©DermNet NZ www.dermnetnz.org 2023
PsA triggerscan vary from person to person.
Common triggers include:
How Is Psoriatic Arthritis Diagnosed?
An accurate and timely diagnosis of PsA can help you to avoid joint damage and other disease complications.
Progression varies from person to person.
It will cause inflammation of the smaller joints of the hands and feet, usually the fingers and toes.
Most people with early PsA will experience nail and skin symptoms, while around 10% will not.
As the disease progresses, you will notice symptoms in larger joints, including the knees.
Over time, you may experience dactylitis and enthesitis.
Later Stages
As PsA progresses, it may affect your daily life.
You might experience severe fatigue and frequent and painful flares.
Severe PsA can cause permanent damage to bones and joints.
Living with more severe symptoms of PsA can make working or maintaining a social life harder.
Surgery
Surgery is a last resort for people with PsA.
Some foods might increase inflammation, while others might help reduce it.
Foods that cause inflammation might include sugars, fried foods, refined carbs, red meats, and alcohol.
Foods that mightreduce inflammationinclude fatty fish, nuts, olive oil, leafy green vegetables, and some fruits.
Complications of Psoriatic Arthritis
If PsA is not adequately treated, it can lead to complications.
For some people, PsA causes mild disease and a few flare-ups a year.
PsA can be painful for others, leading to disability and severe joint damage.
Let your healthcare provider know if you have questions or concerns about your outlook.
They can advise on ways to improve your outlook and the best ways to manage your disease.
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