Psoriatic arthritis is a type of arthritis
that arises in patients suffering from psoriasis. The autoimmune skin
condition is poorly understood, but it has a genetic component and
usually develops in people aged 30-59. Psoriasis looks like red scaly
patches or white dots on fingernails, and it can spread to the joints.
Although the condition is the most likely
to affect the fingers, making them swell up and turn pink, any part of
the body, including the spine, can be plagued by psoriatic arthritis.
Joint swelling, stiffness, and pain are the most common signs of the
disease, and these symptoms can come and go, just like the psoriatic
skin rash itself.
Juvenile idiopathic arthritis is the most
common type. This is a group of autoimmune disorders that affect
children 16 years old and younger. Like most arthritis types, juvenile
idiopathic arthritis causes swelling, pain, and stiffness in the joints,
as well as fatigue and fevers.
Swollen lymph nodes and skin rashes are less common but can occur as
well. Unfortunately, the condition often causes complications, such as
misaligned joints, bone damage, eye damage, and it may affect the
child’s growth. If a child exhibits any of the symptoms mentioned above
for over a week, seek medical care.
7. Ankylosing spondylitis
Ankylosing spondylitis is another
terrifying form of arthritis that makes the lumbar vertebrae fuse
together. It is more common in men than women, but the exact cause of
ankylosing spondylitis is unknown. The symptoms of the condition vary a
lot and can begin as early as late adolescence or in your 40s.
The condition starts with a feeling of stiffness or pain in the lower
back, but over time, it spreads to the shoulder, hips, and ribcage too.
The symptoms typically worsen during periods of inactivity, such as
sleep or long periods of sitting. The complications of the disease
include eye damage, problems breathing, and even heart damage.
8. Systemic lupus erythematosus
Systemic lupus erythematosus is one of the
most commonly misdiagnosed health conditions of all. Lupus is an
autoimmune disease that affects the entire body, including your internal
organs and brain. It often damages the joints and other connective
tissue in your body. Joint pain due to lupus usually begins in the hands
and feet, and then spreads to other areas.
This condition is more prevalent among women than men, and it can cause
anything from fatigue, joint pain, and chest pain to hair loss, skin
rashes, and mouth sores. With lupus, diagnosing it as early as possible
to prevent severe damage to the internal organs is crucial. It is done
through a physical exam and blood tests.
