Psoriatic Disease: A Guide for Patients and Caregivers

What is Psoriatic Disease?

If you’re here, you may be living with psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, or symptoms that don’t yet have a name. You might also be supporting someone you care about.

Psoriatic Disease UK exists to help you understand what’s happening in your body, what support is available, and how to live well with psoriatic disease — whether you’re at the very start of your journey or further along.

You are not alone.

What is psoriatic disease?

Psoriatic disease is an umbrella term used to describe related long‑term conditions that affect the immune system and cause inflammation in the body.

The two main conditions are:

• Psoriasis – a condition that mainly affects the skin

• Psoriatic arthritis – a form of inflammatory arthritis that affects joints, tendons, and ligaments

Some people have only psoriasis, some have only psoriatic arthritis, and many have both.

Psoriatic disease is not contagious and is not caused by anything you did.

Psoriasis: the skin condition

Psoriasis is a long‑term inflammatory skin condition.

It commonly causes:

• Red, inflamed patches of skin

• Silvery or white scales (note, on darker skin, psoriasis typically appears as dark brown, purple, or grayish plaques rather than the bright red patches often seen on lighter skin)

• Skin that may itch, crack, or feel sore

Psoriasis can affect any part of the body, including:

• Elbows and knees

• Scalp

• Lower back

• Nails

• Face, hands, or feet

• Genitals

Symptoms can vary widely. Some people have mild patches; others find psoriasis has a significant impact on daily life, confidence, and wellbeing.

Psoriatic arthritis: the joint condition

Psoriatic arthritis is an inflammatory arthritis linked to psoriasis. It can develop before or after skin symptoms, or sometimes when psoriasis is very mild.

It may cause:

• Joint pain, stiffness, or swelling

• Stiffness that is worse in the morning or after rest

• Pain in tendons or ligaments (for example, around the heel or elbow)

• Swollen fingers or toes (“sausage digits”)

• Fatigue

Early diagnosis and treatment are important, as untreated inflammation can lead to permanent joint damage.

Why early recognition matters

Psoriatic disease is a whole‑body condition, not just a skin or joint problem.

Getting the right support early can:

• Reduce symptoms

• Help protect joints and mobility

• Improve quality of life

• Support mental and emotional wellbeing

If you think your symptoms could be linked to psoriasis or psoriatic arthritis, it’s important to speak to your GP.

How psoriatic disease is treated

There is currently no cure, but there are effective treatments that help control symptoms and inflammation.

Treatment may include:

• Creams and ointments for the skin

• Tablets that reduce inflammation

• Injectable or infusion treatments (often called biologics)

• Pain relief and anti‑inflammatory medicines

• Physiotherapy or podiatry support

Treatment plans are individual and may change over time.

Living with psoriatic disease

Psoriatic disease can affect more than physical health. Many people experience:

• Fatigue

• Changes in mood or confidence

• Impact on work, relationships, and social life

Support, information, and understanding make a real difference — both for people with the condition and for those around them.

Information for family, friends, and supporters

If you support someone with psoriatic disease:

• Symptoms may fluctuate — good days and bad days are common

• Pain and fatigue are not always visible

• Emotional support and understanding are just as important as practical help

Learning about the condition can help you support your loved one more confidently.

What you’ll find on this website

Psoriatic Disease UK provides:

• Clear, trustworthy information about psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis

• Guidance on diagnosis, treatment, and self‑management

• Support for families, partners, employers, and carers

• Resources specific to England and Wales

All content is written for patients and supporters, not clinicians.

When to seek medical advice

Speak to your GP if you:

• Have ongoing joint pain, swelling, or stiffness

• Have psoriasis and develop new joint or tendon pain

• Are struggling with symptoms that affect daily life

You can ask for referral to a specialist if needed.

You are not alone

Living with psoriatic disease can be challenging — but with the right information and support, many people live full, active lives.

This website is here to help you take the next step.