Arthritis is a disease affecting the musculoskeletal system, specifically the joints. A joint is where two bones meet that allows the body parts connected by the bones to move, such as in the shoulder, elbow and knees. Arthritis is the inflammation of one or more joints. It is characterized by joint stiffness and pain (arthralgia) that limits joint function. Arthritis can affect men, women, and even children, but affects mostly women. Early and accurate diagnosis is important to avoid permanent damage and disability. Arthritis is not completely preventable as the genes can affect a person’s susceptibility to developing the disease.
Types of Arthritis
There are over 100 different types of arthritis identified and new discoveries are made from time to time. Because of its many different types, it is considered one of the most common chronic diseases. Some types of arthritis may cause problems in the different body organs such as the eyes and skin. Only the most common forms of arthritis will be described:
- Osteoarthritis (degenerative joint disease): wear and tear of the cartilage(most common form)
- Rheumatoid arthritis: overactive immune system resulting to joint inflammation
- Juvenile rheumatoid arthritis: same as rheumatoid arthritis but occurs in children
- Infectious arthritis: infection that spreads from one body part to the joint
- Psoriatic arthritis: affects people with arthritis
- Fibromyalgia: disorder causing “tender points” to feel pain upon pressure
- Gout: body is incapable of eliminating uric acid forming crystals in the joint
- Systemic lupus erythematosus: autoimmune disorder that attacks different body tissues, joints including
Causes of Arthritis
Because of the many different types of arthritis, there is a wide range of causes that can lead to arthritis. A specific cause of arthritis will cause a particular type of arthritis. The following may lead to different types of arthritis:
- Aging
- Injury
- Metabolic abnormalities: gout and pseudogout
- Bacterial and viral infections
- Autoimmune disorders
- Inheritance
Symptoms of Arthritis
Symptoms of arthritis will be dependent on the type of arthritis. The following symptoms are general symptoms and should not be used for medical diagnosis:
- Joint pain (arthralgia)
- Joint stiffness, redness, swelling and warmth
- Tenderness
- Limited joint movement
- Crunching feeling of the bones
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Fever
- Weight loss
- Fatigue
- Malaise
- Trouble sleeping
Treatment for Arthritis
Treatment for arthritis will depend on the specific type. An early and right diagnosis will increase chances for successful treatment. Ask for medical advice before doing any home remedies. In cases symptoms of arthritis show, the following may be done:
- Take over-the-counter (OTC) non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs to relieve of pain and inflammation such as aspirin, ibuprofen and naproxen.
- Apply cold compress over the affected joints.
- Regular aerobic, stretching and strength-training exercises may be recommended by the doctor.
- If one is overweight, it may be the best time to lose weight.
Disclaimer: The article should not be used for medical diagnosis or treatment. Enrol in First Aid Courses to learn more about relieving symptoms of arthritis and other bone-related injuries or diseases.