1. Look for Psoriasis Combined with Joint Stiffness
One of the first signs of arthritic psoriasis is the presence of joint stiffness with the itchiness and flakiness of psoriasis. Not everyone with psoriasis gets arthritis; when it does happen, the symptoms of arthritis usually come along well after the psoriasis has already begun. In fact, it may be years after psoriasis appears before arthritis shows up. The development of stiffness in any of the joints when psoriasis is already present may mean you are developing arthritic psoriasis.
2. Watch Out for Tenderness and Stiffness in the Feet and Knees
Unlike other types of arthritis, arthritic psoriasis often affects only the feet and knees. Those who have it will experience stiffness, pain and swelling in the toes, ankles and knees, and often nowhere else. Symptoms are usually worse in the morning and may take several hours of movement before they begin to dissipate. Of course, it is possible to develop symptoms of arthritis in other joints with this disease, so pain or stiffness in any joint should be examined by a doctor.
3. Take Note of Swelling
In arthritic psoriasis, the joints of the fingers and toes may swell, even if there is no pain or stiffness present. Doctors are not sure what causes this swelling. It is usually worse in the morning and will continue to go down throughout the day. In most cases, all of the fingers and toes are affected.
4. Fatigue is Usually Present
Because arthritic psoriasis is an autoimmune disorder, that means your body's immune system is constantly fighting your skin and joints, which it perceives to be foreign invaders. This constant state of battle will almost always lead to fatigue that can range from very mild to almost debilitating. It may come and go throughout the day or it may be constant, and low-grade fevers may sometimes be present. Because fatigue can indicate the presence of hundreds of other conditions, any unusual tiredness you experience should be evaluated by a physician, especially if it is accompanied by any of the other symptoms of arthritic psoriasis.
