Does nail pitting mean psoriatic arthritis?
1. Pitting of the nail. These depressions on the nail are the most common symptom of PsA, occurring in more than two-thirds of people with the disease, according to the Psoriasis and Psoriatic Arthritis Alliance. They can be small and shallow or big and deep.
How do you treat psoriatic arthritis of the nails?
Some treatments work to target your nails directly, such as:
- Cortisone injections. Cortisone injections usually target inflammation in a single joint, but they can also be injected into the nail bed to reduce inflammation and combat psoriatic lesions.
- Steroid cream.
- Light therapy.
- Antifungal medications.
- Antibiotics.
What do your nails look like with psoriatic arthritis?
Your nails might crumble or come away from your finger. You might notice ridges, tiny dents called pits, spots of blood, or a yellow or brown color. The same inflammation that causes other symptoms of PsA leads to nail psoriasis, too.
Does psoriasis cause nail pitting?
If you have psoriasis, it’s important to check your fingernails and toenails for signs of nail psoriasis. Common signs include: Tiny dents in your nails (called “nail pits”) White, yellow, or brown discoloration.
How did I get psoriatic arthritis?
The cause of psoriatic arthritis is unknown. Researchers suspect that it develops from a combination of genetic (heredity) and environmental factors. They also think that immune system problems, infection, obesity, and physical trauma play a role in determining who will develop the disease.
What causes nail psoriasis to flare up?
Psoriasis of the nails is caused by the same autoimmune mechanisms as psoriasis of the skin. For reasons not entirely clear, the immune system will inexplicably regard normal tissues as harmful and launch an immune assault. Although the skin is the primary target, other tissues are affected as well.
Can you have nail psoriasis without skin psoriasis?
Only a few people have psoriatic nail disease without having psoriasis affecting either their skin or their joints.
How do I stop nail psoriasis?
Prevention of Nail Psoriasis
- Keep your nails trimmed short.
- Use a nail file to keep nail edges smooth.
- Wear gloves to clean and do other work with your hands.
- Moisturize your nails and cuticles every day and after they’ve been in contact with water.
- Wear comfortable shoes with enough room for your toes.
How long does it take for psoriatic arthritis to damage joints?
“Up to 30 percent of patients with psoriasis will go on to develop psoriatic arthritis,” says Dr. Haberman. The majority of cases begin with the skin condition and then progress to joint pain within seven to 10 years.