New Yorkers who suffer from psoriatic arthritis or osteoarthritis should understand the differences between these conditions. While both mostly affect individuals over the age of 40, osteoarthritis primarily affects cartilage. Psoriatic arthritis is an inflammatory disease that affects the joints as well as the skin. Sufferers of psoriatic arthritis often experience red patches of swollen skin with uncomfortable scales.
New Yorkers who suffer from psoriatic arthritis or osteoarthritis should understand the differences between these conditions. While both mostly affect individuals over the age of 40, osteoarthritis primarily affects cartilage. Psoriatic arthritis is an inflammatory disease that affects the joints as well as the skin. Sufferers of psoriatic arthritis often experience red patches of swollen skin with uncomfortable scales.
Psoriatic arthritis is often mistaken for osteoarthritis since both conditions are associated with joint injury. Osteoarthritis can result in inflammation even in its earliest stages, and some patients even suffer from both conditions at the same time. Both conditions may produce spinal pain and discomfort as well. One line of research focuses on the possibility that osteoarthritis is triggered by psoriatic arthritis.
To identify the difference between psoriatic arthritis and osteoarthritis, it is crucial to look at the location of the symptoms that present themselves. Severe foot pain is common in cases of psoriatic arthritis as is swelling near the point where the pelvis and spine meet. Osteoarthritis is more likely to manifest in joints that move frequently, such as the hands and feet. Osteoarthritis also remains consistent, while psoriatic arthritis tends to flare up in cycles.
Osteoarthritis and psoriatic arthritis are highly prevalent among older adults, and yet many cases go undiagnosed. Individuals who do not receive early treatment may suffer unnecessarily from pain and swelling. Misread test results and other common causes of misdiagnosis could be considered medical malpractice. From lost wages and medical expenses to the pain and suffering associated with prolonged illness without treatment, victims of malpractice may be eligible to receive compensation for a variety of damages.
