Psoriatic arthritis is a type of arthritis that affects people who have psoriasis, a skin condition that causes patches of red, scaly skin. It causes inflammation in the joints, leading to pain, stiffness, and swelling.

According to the Arthritis Foundation, up to 30% of people with psoriasis develop psoriatic arthritis (PsA). There are several risk factors that can increase your chances of developing PsA, and understanding these can help you take steps to reduce your risk and manage your symptoms.

1. Family History

Research has shown that genetic factors play a role in the development of PsA. If you have a close relative with PsA or psoriasis, you have a higher risk of developing the condition yourself than someone without a family history of the disease.

However, not everyone who has a family history of PsA or psoriasis will necessarily develop these conditions.

2. Age

PsA can develop at any age, but it typically affects people in their 30s, 40s, and 50s. However, it can also affect children and older adults.

The risk of developing PsA increases with age, so older people are more likely to develop the condition than younger people.

3. Gender

PsA affects men and women equally, but studies have shown that men are more likely to develop certain types of PsA, such as those that affect the spine and joints in the lower body.

Women, on the other hand, are more likely to develop other types of PsA, such as those that affect the fingers and toes.

4. Psoriasis

As mentioned earlier, psoriasis is a skin condition that causes red, scaly patches on the skin. If you have psoriasis, you have a higher risk of developing PsA than someone without psoriasis.

The severity of your psoriasis does not necessarily predict whether you will develop PsA, but people with severe psoriasis are more likely to develop PsA than those with mild psoriasis.

5. Obesity

Obesity is a risk factor for many health conditions, and PsA is no exception. Studies have shown that people who are overweight or obese are more likely to develop PsA than those who are at a healthy weight.

Additionally, obesity can make symptoms of PsA worse by putting extra pressure on the joints and increasing inflammation in the body.

6. Smoking

Smoking is a risk factor for many health conditions, including PsA. Research has shown that smokers have a higher risk of developing PsA than non-smokers, and people who quit smoking can reduce their risk of developing the condition over time.

Additionally, smoking can make PsA symptoms worse by increasing inflammation in the body.

7. Infections

Infections can trigger the onset of PsA in some people. Studies have shown that people who have had a bacterial or viral infection, such as strep throat or hepatitis, are more likely to develop PsA than people without a history of infection.

Additionally, people with PsA may be more susceptible to infections because of their compromised immune system.

8. Stress

Stress can trigger flare-ups of PsA in some people. Although stress does not directly cause PsA, it can make symptoms worse by increasing inflammation in the body.

Additionally, stress can make it harder to manage symptoms of PsA by making it difficult to get enough sleep and exercise regularly.

9. Joint Injuries

Joint injuries can increase the risk of developing PsA in some people. If you have had a joint injury in the past, you may be more likely to develop PsA in that joint than someone without a history of injury.

Additionally, people with PsA may be more prone to joint injuries because of weakened joints and reduced flexibility.

10. Medications

Some medications have been linked to an increased risk of developing PsA. For example, drugs that suppress the immune system, such as biologics and methotrexate, may increase the risk of developing PsA in some people.

Additionally, some medications used to treat other health conditions, such as high blood pressure and heart disease, may also increase the risk of developing PsA.

Conclusion

Psoriatic arthritis can be a painful and debilitating condition, but there are steps you can take to reduce your risk and manage your symptoms.

By understanding the risk factors associated with PsA, you can make lifestyle changes, such as maintaining a healthy weight, quitting smoking, and managing stress, that may help lower your risk of developing the condition. Additionally, by working with a healthcare provider to manage your psoriasis and PsA, you can reduce your risk of complications and improve your quality of life.