The two main types of arthritis—osteoarthritis and psoriatic arthritis—have key differences. Osteoarthritis, the most common form, is caused by the breakdown of cartilage. Psoriatic arthritis is linked to psoriasis, an autoimmune disease that causes skin inflammation.
Both cause pain and swelling in the joints, but there are important distinctions. Psoriatic arthritis is more likely to affect the hands and feet, while osteoarthritis is more likely to affect the hips and knees. People with psoriatic arthritis are also more likely to experience fatigue, loss of appetite, and eye inflammation.
What is psoriatic arthritis?
Psoriatic arthritis is a form of arthritis that affects people with psoriasis. It is a chronic, inflammatory condition that can cause joint pain, stiffness, and swelling. It can also cause fatigue and flu-like symptoms. In severe cases, it can lead to joint damage and disability.
There is no cure for psoriatic arthritis, but there are treatments that can help relieve symptoms and slow the progression of the condition. If you have psoriatic arthritis, it is important to see a doctor so you can receive treatment and start feeling better.
What can cause this?
This is an autoimmune disease. The disease causes the body to attack its own cells. It is typically developed in people who have psoriasis. Which is a common skin condition which causes rapid skin build-up. The excess skin cells form red patches, which are often covered in whitish-silvery scales. Most of the time psoriasis develops first, then the arthritis. Other risk factors are family history, age and infections.
What is osteoarthritis?
Osteoarthritis is the most common type of arthritis and is a degenerative joint disease. It occurs when the cartilage that cushions the ends of the bones wears down over time. This can lead to pain, stiffness, and swelling in the joints.
There are several risk factors for osteoarthritis, including age, obesity, and previous joint injury. There is no cure for osteoarthritis, but there are treatments that can help to manage the symptoms. These include pain relief medication, physical therapy, and joint lubrication injections.
While both psoriatic arthritis and osteoarthritis can be painful, there are some key differences between the two conditions. Psoriatic arthritis is an inflammatory condition that can lead to joint damage, while osteoarthritis is a degenerative condition that causes the breakdown of cartilage. Treatment for psoriatic arthritis often includes immunosuppressants and biologics, while osteoarthritis is usually treated short-term with pain relievers. If you are unsure of the pain you are in, seek professional help.