Obesity Increases Risk for Psoriatic Arthritis

The Archives of Dermatology reports that those who are obese at the age of 18 have an increased risk for psoriatic arthritis later in life. Psoriatic arthritis typically affects joints in the feet, ankles and knees. The joints become inflamed which can lead to swelling and pain. If joint inflammation happens in the fingers or toes, the entire finger or toe can completely swell up.

This condition can lead to a person becoming disabled and unable to work. If this happens, long-term disability benefits may be necessary to address the sufferer's monthly expenses, such as rent and groceries.

Inflammation caused by psoriatic arthritis can also occur in other areas of the body such as:

• spine;
• tendons;
• chest wall;
• eyes;
• lungs; and
• aorta.

Psoriatic arthritis is a painful and sometimes debilitating condition. It shares similar symptoms to rheumatoid arthritis. Obesity can contribute to the risk of developing this chronic condition.

The new findings indicated that for those who were in the obese range, 20% of the patients developed psoriatic arthritis by the time they reached the age of 35. For those who were not in the obese range, 20% developed psoriatic arthritis by the age of 48.

Other predictors of psoriatic arthritis include:

• Younger age at onset of psoriasis;
• Being female; and
• Having more areas of the body affected by psoriasis.

If you suffer from psoriatic arthritis or any other debilitating physical ailment, you may qualify for long-term disability benefits. Contact a long-term disability attorney from The Law Offices of LaVan & Neidenberg, P.A. who can help you determine eligibility - 1-888-234-5758