• What you Should Know about Psoriatic Arthritis

    While there are well over 100 different types of arthritis in existence, unfortunately many people do not even realize that there are other types of arthritis besides rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis One of those little known types of arthritis is known as psoriatic arthritis and it can be as debilitating as some of the more well known varieties of arthritis. So exactly what is psoriatic arthritis and just how does this variety present itself? Just like the name sounds, psoriatic arthritis is associated with...
  • What are the Risk Factors for Psoriatic Arthritis?

    Psoriatic arthritis affects some people who have psoriasis, a chronic inflammatory disease of the immune system that manifests itself as patches of red or silvery skin lesions. Most people develop psoriasis before being diagnosed with psoriatic arthritis, but joint issues sometimes appear before skin lesions. Joint pain, swelling, and stiffness are the common signs of psoriatic arthritis. These symptoms can occur in any part of the body, including the spine and fingertips, and can range from mild to severe. Psoriatic arthritis usually alternates with...
  • Testing and Diagnosis for Psoriatic Arthritis

    Psoriatic arthritis (PSA) is a condition that affects people who have psoriasis, an immune system disorder that appears as reddish or silvery skin lesions. Symptoms of PSA include periodic inflammation of the joints and body tissues, including the heart, eyes, kidneys, lungs, and spine. A person may have symptoms of one condition alone for many years before signs of the accompanying condition show up Diagnosis Diagnosing PSA can be somewhat complicated, as there is currently no specific test for the condition. There are, however, several...
  • How to Manage Living with Psoriatic Arthritis

    Approximately 15% of people with psoriasis also develop a condition called psoriatic arthritis (PSA). This form of arthritis occurs when the body’s immune system not only starts to attack your skin, causing the trademark skin lesions of psoriasis, but also begins to attack your joints as well. Sometimes, PSA can occur before you see rashes on your skin. Your elbows, knees, back, and even finger tips can be affected. Everyday Challenges Many everyday activities can become difficult for people with this disease. A form...