Psoriatic Arthritis
Psoriatic arthritis is a long-term inflammatory condition that can affect the joints, skin, nails, and areas where tendons or ligaments attach to bones. It commonly occurs in people who have psoriasis, but joint symptoms can sometimes appear before the skin symptoms.
The condition can cause joint pain, swelling, stiffness, and tiredness. Because symptoms can vary from person to person, early medical evaluation is important. Treatment can help control inflammation, relieve symptoms, and protect the joints from further damage.
What Is Psoriatic Arthritis?
Psoriatic arthritis is a type of inflammatory arthritis linked to psoriasis. It develops when the immune system becomes overactive and causes inflammation in the joints and surrounding tissues.
It can affect one or several joints and may also involve the spine, fingers, toes, tendons, and ligaments.
Most people with psoriatic arthritis have psoriasis, although joint symptoms can occasionally develop before noticeable skin changes.
Early diagnosis and treatment can help reduce inflammation and lower the risk of permanent joint damage.