If you’ve ever had irritated skin or sore joints and tendons, you know how difficult daily life can become. Even if your struggles are more annoying than disruptive, they can still be a major pain! But did you know your soreness and skin trouble may be related? That they may be more than occasional issues, and part of an overall disease?
This is where psoriatic arthritis and psoriasis play a role. Although separate conditions, they are both very related, and together form what is called psoriatic disease.
What Is Psoriatic Disease?
Psoriatic disease refers to a condition that impacts multiple areas of your body. It is an ongoing condition that may worsen with time, becoming uncomfortable and painful, and for some people, may trigger disability and deformity.
Isn’t getting older fun?
The good news is, that there are many treatments and support groups, but before seeking help, you need to know which condition you’re dealing with! Some people develop the arthritis component of the disease, others deal with skin issues. Some sufferers have both. In all cases, these two types of psoriatic disease are a result of a dysfunctional immune system.
Let’s cover both.
RELATED: Psoriatic Arthritis: Types, Causes, Symptoms & Treatments
Psoriatic Arthritis
Caused by chronic inflammation, psoriatic arthritis is simply one manifestation of the overall disease. Close to one-third of people with the initial skin issues of psoriasis will have complications with joints and tendons, leading to psoriatic arthritis.
This condition impacts three types of areas: the joints, the tendons, and the ligaments. Although healthcare professionals still aren’t sure what exactly causes psoriatic arthritis, they believe there are genetic and environmental components.
Symptoms include:
- Swelling
- Fatigue
- Pain
- Inflammation
Typically, psoriatic arthritis affects the toes and fingers, and in time, can lead to
