Psoriasis affects over a million people in the UK, putting them at risk for a unique form of arthritis. It can affect many joints and cause disability if left untreated.

Psoriatic arthritis affects one in five people with psoriasis. The two key symptoms are skin, nail, or scalp psoriasis and joint pain, stiffness, or swelling.

Psoriasis in the fingernails is often linked to arthritis in the finger joints. Other affected joints include knees, ankles, wrists, hips, and small joints.

Psoriatic arthritis can affect many joints, including the spine and sacroiliac joints.

Arthritis Action notes that psoriatic arthritis can affect adults of any age. Some cases are mild, while others are more severe.

Symptoms in affected joints include pain and stiffness.

These symptoms are usually worse in the morning and can change over time.

There is no blood test to confirm psoriatic arthritis. Doctors will inspect joints and use tests to rule out other forms of arthritis.

Treatments for psoriatic arthritis include physical therapies, occupational therapies, and self-management strategies. Some people may need painkillers, joint injections, or surgery.

The treatment of psoriatic arthritis depends on the number of affected joints and severity. Mild cases may be treated with painkillers or anti-inflammatory tablets.

Certain drugs can help with both arthritis and skin psoriasis.

The main sign of psoriasis is dry, itchy, sore, and flaky skin patches with silvery-white scales.

People may develop psoriatic arthritis if they have a close relative with psoriasis.

The most common places to get psoriasis are on the body.

Psoriasis in the nails can cause dents or pits. Symptoms can change over time.

There is no cure for psoriasis, but it can be treated with creams, lotions, or ointments. Living with psoriasis can affect mental health.