As of 2021, more than 350-million people suffered from arthritis. There are 58.5-million patients in the US alone. Yes, we know that’s a staggering number!
Arthritis refers to the inflammation of body joints. It leaves the joints swollen, stiff, and painful. Sometimes, patients are unable to move their arthritis-affected parts.
In this article, we have discussed the topic in detail. You'll learn about the symptoms, causes, types, and even treatment. Read more!
What is arthritis?
While arthritis refers to joint inflammation, there are over 200-different conditions that categorize as arthritis. These conditions may affect the organs and immune system too. Plus, they display a variety of symptoms that include:
- Joint pain
- Swelling and stiffness in joints
- Bony growths in hands
- Limited movement
- Muscle ache around joints
- Low-grade fever
- Fatigue
- Reduced red blood cell count
These arthritis symptoms may occur immediately or show up one by one over a long period. Please note, you may experience one or two of these symptoms depending on the type.
Factors that cause arthritis
Several factors lead to arthritis development. Here's an overview of the most common ones.
Age
Usually, arthritis is diagnosed in people over the age of 50. People even consider it as a sign of aging.
Excessive use of joints
Using your hand or leg joints excessively can cause them to weaken and develop arthritis. The cartilage surrounding the joints begins to break down, causing the bone structure to change.
Genetic Makeup
If an individual’s parents or ancestors had arthritis, the risk of getting arthritis is high. However, some people are protected from the condition too.
Obesity
Obesity is a condition characterized by very high body weight. Having extra weight puts stress on the body's joints and muscles. The delicate cartilage around the joints gets damaged, leading to arthritis.
7-Main Types of Arthritis
As mentioned, there are over 200-different conditions in arthritis. Hence, explaining each one of them is not possible. But, we have compiled the seven main types.
- Degenerative or mechanical arthritis
- Inflammatory arthritis
- Soft tissue musculoskeletal pain
- Infectious arthritis
- Back pain
- Metabolic arthritis
- Connective tissue disease
Each of these types affects a different area and exhibits other symptoms. You may need a health professional to perform a thorough examination.
How to treat Arthritis?
Unlike popular belief, arthritis is not curable. With easy access to various treatment options, its symptoms can be managed.
For example, an arthritis patient may take doctor-prescribed medications to minimize pain. Obese individuals can follow weight loss plans to improve. Meanwhile, there are also non-pharmacologic and physical therapies available.
Please note, arthritis worsens over time. It may cause serious complications that lower your lifespan by 10 to 15 years. Therefore, it is best to begin treatment as soon as possible.
