Psoriatic Arthritis

Frequently Asked Questions

• What are the first signs of psoriatic arthritis?

  Most of the time, psoriasis is the first symptom of psoriatic arthritis. It causes silvery-white skin lesions called plaques, which may appear on your scalp, elbows, knees, and lower back. Eventually, pain and stiffness develop as inflammation spreads from the skin to the joints and/or connective tissues.

  Learn More: Symptoms of Psoriatic Arthritis
• What are the 5 types of psoriatic arthritis?

  Psoriatic arthritis is broadly divided into two groups- axial, which involves the spine and hips, and non-axial, which involves the peripheral joints.

  It can be further classified into 5 types:

  • Asymmetric oligoarticular: Affects two to three joints on one side
  • Symmetric polyarthritis: Affects more than four joints on both sides
  • Distal interphalangeal predominant (DIP): Involves the joint closest to the tips of fingers or toes
  • Psoriatic spondylitis: Involves inflammation and pain in the spinal column
  • Arthritis Mutilans: A severe form of erosive arthritis leading to bone loss and deformity

  Learn More: PsA Symptoms and Subtypes
• What foods trigger psoriatic arthritis?

  While no diet is shown to cure PsA, inflammatory foods may exacerbate symptoms. They include:

  • Red meat
  • Dairy
  • High-fructose corn syrup
  • Refined sugar
  • Refined carbs (white bread, white rice)
  • Trans fat

  An anti-inflammatory diet emphasizes whole grains, oily fish, dark green leafy vegetables, and fruits.

  Learn More: Psoriatic Arthritis and Your Diet
• What does psoriatic arthritis look like?

  Psoriasis causes patches of red, rough skin with silvery scales. They’re most often around the joints of elbows, knees, hands, and feet. The skin surrounding the joint may develop blisters and appear cracked. On the scalp, it may look like dandruff.