Arthritis
About Arthritis
Arthritis is a general term for conditions that involve joint inflammation, causing pain, stiffness, and swelling, with over 100 different types. Common forms include osteoarthritis (degenerative, often age-related) and rheumatoid arthritis (an autoimmune condition where the body's immune system attacks joints). Treatment depends on the type and may involve medication (like anti-inflammatory drugs), lifestyle changes (exercise, weight loss), and physical therapy to manage symptoms and preserve joint function.
Symptoms
Symptoms of arthritis vary depending on the type, but often include:
- Joint pain
- Stiffness
- Inflammation: (swelling)
- Reduced range of motion: in the affected joint
- Fatigue: and other general symptoms in some types
Common Types of Arthritis:
- Osteoarthritis (OA):
The most common form, caused by the breakdown of cartilage in joints. It often develops with age or due to injury. - Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA):
An autoimmune disorder where the immune system mistakenly attacks the lining of the joints, causing inflammation. - Gout:
A painful type of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid in the body, often affecting the big toe. - Psoriatic Arthritis:
A condition that affects people with psoriasis, an inflammatory skin condition. - Infectious Arthritis:
Caused by an infection that has spread to the joint.
Causes
The causes of arthritis differ by type:
- Wear and tear: of cartilage in osteoarthritis.
- Autoimmune responses: in rheumatoid arthritis and psoriatic arthritis.
- Infections: in the joint.
- Crystal deposits: In the joint, as seen in gout.
Treatment & Management
There is no cure for arthritis, but treatments can help manage symptoms and preserve joint function:
- Medications:
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), steroids, and disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) can reduce pain and inflammation. - Lifestyle Changes:
Regular, low-impact exercise (like swimming or cycling), maintaining a healthy weight, and physical therapy can improve joint flexibility and strength