What Causes Psoriatic Arthritis?

When the immune system mistakenly targets healthy cells and tissue, overproduction of skin cells and inflammation in the joints are both side effects of the immunological response. This is how psoriatic arthritis develops. Here’s what you need to know about getting the right diagnosis.

What Is Psoriatic Arthritis?

Psoriatic arthritis is a persistent and inflammatory condition that affects the joints and entheses (where a tendon or ligament meets the bone). Although this particular disease typically manifests itself within the age range of 30 to 50 years, it can develop in individuals at any stage of life, including childhood.

Symptoms of Psoriatic Arthritis

Common symptoms of psoriatic arthritis may include:

Swelling of the fingers and toes
Inflammation, discomfort, and tenderness around the tendons
Chronic fatigue
Joint stiffness, discomfort, aching, throbbing, swelling, and soreness
Morning soreness and fatigue
Restricted mobility
Eye inflammation
Psoriasis

Psoriatic arthritis typically emerges approximately a few years after the initial onset of psoriasis. However, it is worth noting that some individuals can still experience psoriatic arthritis as their first symptom without ever developing psoriasis.

Potential Causes of Psoriatic Arthritis

Biological Factors

Between 33 to 50 percent of those with psoriatic arthritis have a first-degree relative with the condition. The human leukocyte antigens (HLA) region on chromosome six contains some of the genes linked to the onset of psoriatic arthritis. There is also a connection between the immune system and this area.

Injuries or Infections

While genetic factors may indeed contribute to the development of psoriatic arthritis, it is important to note that environmental factors, such as injuries or infections, could potentially heighten the risk for individuals who already possess a genetic predisposition to this condition.

Early Detection and Getting the Right Diagnosis

Recognizing, diagnosing, and treating psoriatic arthritis at an early stage is crucial to preventing or minimizing the significant joint damage that may develop as the disease progresses.

Since symptoms of psoriatic arthritis bear a striking resemblance to those of other conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, gout, and reactive arthritis, there is no singular diagnostic test that can confirm its presence. However, working with a functional medicine provider to carefully monitor your symptoms and conduct a process of elimination through specialized lab testing may help uncover psoriatic arthritis, as well as other underlying conditions that may be plaguing your health.

Effective Psoriatic Arthritis Treatment in Kansas City, MO

The Epigenetics Healing Center in Kansas City, MO, provides the most cutting-edge lab testing that gets to the root of your health conditions and allows you to find natural, holistic solutions to healing.

Do you have psoriatic arthritis, or could it be something else? Schedule an appointment today by calling (816) 673-1230.