The first red flag of psoriatic arthritis is often joint pain. When I first experienced symptoms, I noticed that my joints were achy and sore, especially in the morning. It felt like a dull, persistent ache that didn’t go away with rest or over-the-counter pain medication. This was a clear indication that something was not right.
Another common sign is stiffness. I found that my joints, particularly in my fingers and toes, would feel stiff and difficult to move, especially after periods of inactivity. It was as if they were stuck, and it took some effort to get them moving again. This stiffness would often improve with movement throughout the day, but would return after periods of rest.
Swelling is another key symptom of psoriatic arthritis. I noticed that my joints, particularly my knees and ankles, would become swollen and puffy. The swelling was often accompanied by warmth and tenderness in the affected joints. It was not only visually noticeable, but also caused discomfort and made it difficult to perform daily activities.
In addition to these primary symptoms, psoriatic arthritis can also cause fatigue, nail changes, and skin symptoms such as psoriasis. Fatigue was a constant companion for me, even when I didn’t feel like I had exerted myself physically. My nails also started to show signs of psoriatic arthritis, becoming pitted, discolored, and even separating from the nail bed. And of course, there was the presence of psoriasis, with red, scaly patches appearing on my skin.
It’s important to note that the severity and combination of these symptoms can vary from person to person. Some individuals may only experience mild joint pain and stiffness, while others may have more severe symptoms that impact their daily lives significantly. It’s always best to consult with a healthcare professional if you suspect you may have psoriatic arthritis or any other medical condition.
The first red flag of psoriatic arthritis is often joint pain, stiffness, and swelling. These symptoms can affect any part of the body and can range from mild to severe. It’s essential to pay attention to these warning signs and seek medical advice for proper diagnosis and management.