Psoriatic Arthritis Effects On The Body
Psoriatic arthritis is a type of arthritis that is combined with psoriasis, so the skin and the joints are both affected with this type of arthritis. The entire body can be affected with this type of arthritis, which is why receiving treatment is so important--to help you get back to your life without feeling pain and other effects associated with psoriatic arthritis. Read on for some of the effects that this can have on the body.
Scaly Skin
Just as with psoriasis, the skin can be scaly. You may notice raised patches of skin that appear red or silver in color. The patches can be very itchy. With other types of arthritis, you don't usually see these scaly patches, but psoriatic arthritis is different. It can sometimes be easily confused with other types of skin disorders. Treat these patches with a thick and creamy lotion to keep these areas moist and to prevent itchiness.
Flaky Scalp
You may also notice a flaky scalp but may confuse it with dandruff or just dry skin. If you have a flaky scalp, try adjusting your shampoo to help prevent flaking such as a high moisture shampoo/conditioner. Try not to itch your scalp too much.
Joint Pain
Pain in the joints such as in the hands, elbows, and knees can occur with most types of arthritis. You may feel this pain when first waking, or throughout the day. This pain can feel like a throbbing pain, or even like a hot, burning pain. You may have a difficult time bending any of these joints. You may also have crippling or malformed joints from this type of arthritis which can give you a limited range of motion.
Eye Infections
Psoriatic arthritis can cause issues with the eye that can lead to eye infections. You could also end up with lesions of the eye or inflammation of the eye can occur. These types of infections are common and can occur in anyone, but combined with the other symptoms, they can be caused by your psoriatic arthritis.
The type of treatment you have will depend on your physician and the type of psoriatic arthritis you have. There is no cure for this type of arthritis, but there are treatment options that can help to minimize your symptoms and get you feeling more like yourself so you can continue to live your life and to continue doing what you love to do.
To learn more, schedule an appointment with a medical office like Sarasota Arthritis Center today.
