Psoriatic Arthritis Vs. Psoriasis

In this issue, we are going to try and simplify many, often misdiagnosed, rheumatological diseases which may cause confusion. 

Both of these conditions are thought to be caused by weaknesses in your immune system. Psoriasis causes patches of scaly, inflamed skin, but people who suffer from this condition do not always develop Psoriatic Arthritis. In fact, only about 30% of people who have Psoriasis will develop Psoriatic Arthritis. Psoriatic Arthritis is marked by joint swelling and pain, which may lead to permanent deformities and damage if not treated.

So what “triggers” should you be aware of with both of these conditions? 

      • Stress can cause Psoriasis flare-ups. 

      • Certain medications can make existing skin lesions worse or prompt
          Psoriasis conditions. 

      • A strep throat infection is believed to lead to some Psoriasis skin
         irritations. 

     • Lack of ultraviolet light on the dreary days of winter can make Psoriasis
         symptoms worse. 

     • Trauma to the skin (insect bites, sunburn, or scratches) can trigger
         psoriasis to appear.

Psoriatic Arthritis hands

Psoriasis

Psoriatic Arthritis, on the other hand, can affect any joint in the body, and symptoms vary from person to person. If inflammation isn’t treated, it can lead to joint damage. While the cause is not known, Psoriatic Arthritis results show that 40% of people have a family history. It is also thought that it can be the result of an infection that activates the immune system. It is interesting to note that Psoriatic Arthritis usually appears in people between the ages of 30 to 50, but can begin as early as childhood.

Fatigue and anemia are common complaints. 

Psoriatic Arthritis hands

An accurate diagnosis of Psoriasis as opposed to Psoriatic Arthritis is key in making certain you get the proper treatment. Like Psoriasis, Psoriatic Arthritis symptoms fade and subside, vary from person to person, and even change locations in the same person over time. Since these conditions can be confused, and since Psoriatic Arthritis can also be misdiagnosed as Gout, it is imperative that you seek the services of a specialist in musculoskeletal disorders like Dr. Crayton. As a tenured Rheumatologist, Dr.Crayton can make a proper diagnosis and advise the best treatment options. For most people, appropriate treatments will relieve pain, protect the joints, and maintain your mobility. Put your mind at ease and let us recommend the most effective ways to live with Psoriatic Arthritis … or its “distant cousin” … Psoriasis. Treatment IS available.