Early symptoms of psoriatic arthritis explained by your rheumatologist

The joints in our body work hard for us every day, helping us walk, use our hands, and move us through the motions of our daily lives. When even just one joint becomes painful and inflamed, it can take a severe toll on our quality of life. Psoriatic arthritis is an inflammatory disease that can cause joint pain along with several other symptoms – many of which you may not associate with “arthritis.” Like many diseases, your chances of successful treatment are highest when it is treated at an early stage. At Seaside Rheumatology in Encinitas, California, we encourage patients to visit us for a consultation at the first sign of symptoms so we can work with you to identify an effective treatment plan.

Psoriatic arthritis explained

Psoriatic arthritis is an inflammatory arthritic condition that affects between 5 and 30 percent of people with psoriasis (a skin disorder), most common in people aged 30 to 50. Some patients develop symptoms of psoriasis before developing psoriatic arthritis, while others experience joint pain from psoriatic arthritis before they ever have any skin-related psoriasis symptoms.

Early signs and symptoms of psoriatic arthritis

When most people think of arthritis, joint pain is the first thing that comes to mind. While joint pain is a common symptom of psoriatic arthritis and can affect the fingers, knees, toes, lower back, ankles, feet or other body areas, it is not the only early symptom. Other early signs and symptoms of psoriatic arthritis include:

• Stiffness or reduced range of motion in the joints, especially in the morning 
• Warmth or swelling in the joints
• Pitting in your nails, which may appear like dents or bumps
• Nails that are falling apart or separating from the nail bed
• Pain in your lower back, 
• Inflammation in your eyes, which may manifest as pain, irritation, redness, or changes in your vision
• Swelling in the fingers or toes that is not necessarily located just in the joint area, making it look “sausage-like.”
• Pain at the bottom of your foot, heel, or elbow 
• Fatigue, even when you have gotten a good night’s sleep

I think I might have psoriatic arthritis – what do I do next?

There are several potential underlying causes of the symptoms listed above. An experienced rheumatologist like Dr. Lloyd can help you determine whether psoriatic arthritis or another condition contributes to your pain and other symptoms. It is essential to obtain a diagnosis and treatment at the earliest stage possible with psoriatic arthritis. It can eventually lead to joint deformation and severely limit your physical abilities. Fortunately, treatment options have come a long way in recent years due to scientific advances, and the team at Seaside Rheumatology is here to help.

To schedule your evaluation and consultation, call our Encinitas, CA office at 760-452-2080 or email info@seasiderheum.com.  You can also request an appointment or consultation online. 

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