Psoriatic arthritis might sound like a big word, but it’s something that people with psoriasis need to know about.
Psoriasis is a skin condition that causes red, scaly patches on your skin. But sometimes, it doesn’t stop there. It can also lead to something called psoriatic arthritis, which affects your joints.
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If you or someone you know has psoriasis, it’s important to watch out for the early signs of psoriatic arthritis.
1. Joint Pain and Swelling: One of the first things you might notice is pain and swelling in your joints. This can happen in your fingers, toes, or even your back. Sometimes, it can be really painful, and other times, it might just feel stiff.
2. Morning Stiffness: If you wake up in the morning and your joints feel really stiff, that could be a sign. Psoriatic arthritis tends to make your joints feel tight and hard to move, especially after sleeping.
3. Nail Changes: Keep an eye on your nails. Psoriatic arthritis can make them look different. They might get pitted (like tiny dents), or they could separate from the nail bed. Sometimes, they might even turn a different color.
4. Swollen Fingers and Toes: Psoriatic arthritis can cause your fingers and toes to look swollen. They might even appear like little sausages. This can happen on just one finger or toe, or many.
5. Fatigue: Feeling tired a lot, even when you didn’t do much? Psoriatic arthritis can make you feel really tired, and you might not know why.
6. Eye Problems: Sometimes, psoriatic arthritis can affect your eyes. They might get red or feel painful, or you could even notice changes in your vision.
7. Back Pain: If your lower back hurts, especially in the morning or after resting, it could be due to psoriatic arthritis. This is because it can affect the joints in your spine.
8. Reduced Range of Motion: When your joints are affected by psoriatic arthritis, they might not move like they used to. You could find it hard to bend your knees, wrists, or other joints.
If you notice any of these signs, it’s important to talk to a doctor. They can help figure out if it’s psoriatic arthritis or something else. Remember, catching it early and getting the right treatment can make a big difference in how you feel and how your joints stay healthy.
