Encinitas, CA, doctor helps you learn how to know if you have psoriatic arthritis

Dr. Peter Lloyd of Seaside Rheumatology and Wellness Center in Encinitas, CA, knows how important it is for patients to be diagnosed correctly to receive the most effective treatment and feel relief from their pain or discomfort. While autoimmune disorders, like psoriatic arthritis, can be challenging to diagnose, it is important that patients listen to their bodies and doctors listen to their patients.

How to know if you have psoriatic arthritis

• Skin rash: Most patients with psoriatic arthritis will have psoriasis seven to 12 years before the onset of arthritis. This particular rash is identifiable by a plaque that includes red patches of skin with silvery scales. In some cases, the rash can be large and quite noticeable; it can also be found behind the ears, on the scalp, or in rough areas of the body like the elbows and knees.
• Damaged nails: Psoriasis can also impact the finger and toenails. Patients often notice that the nail seems to lift off the nail bed, develop pits, become thick, or even start to flake.
• Swollen fingers and toes: Patients with early-stage psoriatic arthritis may notice that their fingers and toes become swollen. They can also be red, sore, and difficult to bend. This is a symptom that separates psoriatic arthritis from rheumatoid arthritis.
• Painful joints: Sore joints are also a common symptom for patients with rheumatoid arthritis. However, patients with psoriatic arthritis will notice that it impacts one side of the body more than the other and is most uncomfortable in the morning or after they have rested. It typically impacts the knees and ankles, but patients may feel pain in their back, hip, and shoulder as well.
• Heel and foot pain: Psoriatic arthritis can cause soreness where ligaments and tendons attach to the bone, such as the Achilles tendon and plantar fascia. Patients will notice that the back of their heel or sole becomes painful.
• Eye inflammation, pain, redness, or blurry vision is common in children with psoriatic arthritis.

If you are experiencing psoriatic arthritis symptoms, it is important to see a doctor as soon as possible. Call Dr. Lloyd at Seaside Rheumatology and Wellness Center at 760-509-2429 today to learn more about diagnosis and treatment.

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