These are some of the common early signs and symptoms of psoriatic arthritis.
Skin Rash (Psoriasis)
For most people, psoriatic arthritis is preceded by psoriasis, a type of skin rash that usually appears as red patches with silvery scales, which are called plaques. Psoriasis plaques can show up anywhere on the body, but are common on the scalp, elbows, knees, or around the ears. The rash may itch and burn.
In some cases, arthritis symptoms such as stiff or painful joints come first, before psoriasis. And for some people, joint and skin symptoms start at the same time.
Fatigue
Generalized fatigue is a common symptom of psoriatic arthritis. While effective treatment can reduce fatigue in psoriatic arthritis, some medications used to treat the disease can also contribute to it.
Painful, Swollen Joints
Any joint can be affected by psoriatic arthritis, but it commonly impacts the fingers and toes, as well as the wrists, knees, and ankles. Joint pain and swelling may occur on one or both sides of the body, and the pain may be worse in the morning or after you’ve rested.
Joint Stiffness
Stiff joints may make moving or bending difficult. Along with pain in the joints, joint stiffness is usually worse in the morning or after you’ve been still for a while.
Reduced Range of Motion
The pain and stiffness associated with psoriatic arthritis can affect your range of motion. You may not be able to move your joints and limbs easily.
Swollen Fingers or Toes
Many people with psoriatic arthritis experience a symptom known as dactylitis, or “sausage digit” — the dramatic swelling of a finger or toe. Since other forms of arthritis don’t generally cause this type of swelling, the symptom can help doctors home in on a diagnosis of psoriatic arthritis.
Nail Problems
With psoriatic arthritis, fingernails and toenails may become pitted, flaky, or look infected. Sometimes they can even lift from the nail bed. Such nail changes can also occur in people who have psoriasis but not psoriatic arthritis.
Enthesitis: Heel or Foot Pain
Enthesitis, which is characterized by pain and swelling where tendons or ligaments attach to bones, is common in people with psoriatic arthritis. This symptom usually occurs at the back of the heel or on the bottom of the foot.
Eye Inflammation
Psoriatic arthritis can sometimes cause inflammation of the eyes called uveitis, which is characterized by irritation, redness, and vision problems.
Back Pain
Some people with psoriatic arthritis develop spondylitis — a condition that causes inflammation in your spine or pelvis. (Inflammation of the pelvis is called sacroiliitis.) This can lead to back pain and stiffness, most commonly in the lower back, neck, and upper back.
