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Explanation of Psoriatic Arthritis

Psoriatic arthritis is a type of arthritis that affects people who have a skin condition called psoriasis. Joint pain, swelling and stiffness are the primary symptoms of psoriatic arthritis and can affect any part of the body.

  1. Pain Patterns

    • According to the Mayo Clinic, Psoriatic arthritis may cause joint pain on only one side of the body or on both sides of the body. Psoriatic arthritis pain may be limited to the finger joints or the spine.

    Causes

    • Psoriatic arthritis develops in people who have a genetic predisposition to the disorder. The disorder is triggered when the body's immune system responds to a bacterial infection or a viral infection.

    Risk Factors

    • Psoriasis sufferers and adults between 30 and 50 years of age have a greater risk of developing psoriatic arthritis.

    Complications

    • Swollen fingers and swollen toes that resemble sausages can develop in psoriatic arthritis patients.

    Treatments

    • Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as aspirin or ibuprofen can help control swelling, pain and morning stiffness. Antirheumatic drugs such as sulfasalazine can help limit joint damage in people with psoriatic arthritis.

    Lifestyle

    • Patients can manage and reduce the pain of psoriatic arthritis by maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly and using cold or hot packs on affected areas.

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