Symptoms of a psoriatic arthritis flare

Psoriatic arthritis is an inflammatory condition that can affect joints, tendons, and the places where tendons attach to bone. During a flare, a previously affected joint may become more tender or swollen, while fingers or toes can look diffusely swollen. Morning stiffness may last longer than your usual pattern, and skin or nail psoriasis may also become more active. Symptoms can vary from one flare to another.

A symptom diary can help show changes in pain, stiffness, swelling, skin symptoms, sleep, activity, and medicines. A flare does not automatically mean treatment has failed, but repeated or prolonged changes merit review.

Balance rest with gentle movement so joints do not remain still for long periods. Use cold for a hot swollen joint or warmth for stiffness if either is comfortable. Follow your prescribed plan and do not alter anti-inflammatory or other medicines without advice. Physiotherapy can help maintain joint movement, protect painful areas, and adjust activity while inflammation settles.

Contact your rheumatology team when symptoms are clearly above your baseline, interfere with sleep or daily tasks, or keep returning. Seek urgent care for a suddenly hot, very painful joint with fever or chills, a painful red eye or vision change, chest pain, or severe breathing difficulty.

How should I record a flare? Which medicines can I use for short-term relief? Should my treatment be reviewed? What activity and exercises are suitable while swelling is present?