WHAT DO YOU MEAN BY THE TERM ‘ARTHRITIS’?
Arthritis awareness is crucial as this condition affects millions worldwide. Arthritis refers to joint inflammation causing pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. It’s not a single disease but rather over 100 different types, with osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis being most common. Early arthritis awareness can lead to timely intervention and better management of symptoms. The main symptoms of arthritis are joint pain, stiffness (which basically become worse with age), swelling, and reduced range of motion. As per researchers, this condition is extremely common in people older than 50 years of age and above. Furthermore, arthritis can affect any joint and it mostly affects the hands and wrists, knees, hips, feet and ankles, shoulder and lower back of people. In case of India, approximately 15% of Indians—around 210 million people in India are suffering from this disease.
WHAT ARE THE DIFFERENT TYPES OF ARTHRITIS?
As per rheumatologists, there are more than 100 types of arthritis. Some of the most common types are as follows:-
- Osteoarthritis – wear and tear arthritis.
- Rheumatoid arthritis – when the immune system mistakenly damages the joints.
- Gout – it causes sharp uric acid crystals to form in the joints.
- Ankylosing spondylitis– affects joints near lower back.
- Juvenile arthritis – arthritis in teens and kids younger than 16 years of age.
- Psoriatic arthritis – arthritis that affects people suffering from psoriasis.
WHAT ARE THE SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF ARTHRITIS?
The most common signs and symptoms of arthritis are as follows:-
- Severe Joint pain
- Inflammation or swelling
- Skin discoloration
- Stiffness or reduced range of motion
- Sensitivity to touch around a joint
- A feeling of heat or warmth around joints
These are the most common symptoms and signs of arthritis.
WHAT ARE THE MAIN CAUSES OF ARTHRITIS?
- Osteoarthritis
- Gout
- Excessive uric acid in blood (hyperuricemia)
- Viral infections
- Idiopathic arthritis
- Smoking or using tobacco products
- Genetic or family history
- Sedentary lifestyle
- Obesity
- Autoimmune diseases
Moreover, based on research it has been found out that people above 50 years of age, females, including the ones who have demanding jobs are more susceptible to developing arthritis.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTS:
A healthcare provider will diagnose arthritis with a physical exam. They will examine the affected joints of a patient and ask about the symptoms. They will also examine the range or intensity of motion of the patient and recommend medical tests accordingly.
TESTS UNDERTAKEN FOR ARTHRITIS DIAGNOSIS:
- X-Ray
- Ultrasound
- Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
- CT Scan
- Urine or blood tests
- Anti-CCP test
These aforementioned medical tests will help determine whether a person is suffering from arthritis or not.
MANAGEMENT AND TREATMENT:
Unfortunately, there is no cure for this disease, however, there are some treatments that will help manage the symptoms of arthritis. Some of the symptoms are as follows –
- Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medicines such as acetaminophen or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID)
- Taking adequate rest
- Hot or cold compresses for temporary relief
- Regular exercise
- Physical therapy or occupational therapy to reduce stress and anxiety
- Corticosteroids (joint injections)
- Disease – modifying antirheumatic drugs
- Arthritis Surgery in severe cases such as joint fusion and joint replacement
- Alternative medicines which are not “FDA approved” such as glucosamine, chondroitin including ayurvedic medicines are also used by some people.
Understanding Thalassemia: Causes, Symptoms, and Management
HOW ONE CAN PREVENT ARTHRITIS?
One can lower their chances of arthritis by undertaking the following principles –
- Avoiding tobacco products
- Following a proper diet
- Not leading sedentary life (exercising regularly)
- Wearing proper protective medical equipment to protect the joint.
Arthritis Foundation’s symptom checker
EARLY INTERVENTION:
- Early intervention or diagnosis – in arthritis is a transformative approach that can significantly reduce the burden of disease. This approach towards arthritis is very crucial for diagnosing and treating arthritis related symptoms at its earlier stages to prevent joint damage, maintain proper function, and improve long-term outcomes. Early diagnosis is done via physical exam, blood tests, and sometimes X-rays or CT Scans to look at the joints.
- Consulting a specialist early – consulting a rheumatologist to help in starting the right treatment quickly.
- Starting the right medicine as early as possible
- Healthy lifestyle changes
- Getting educated about the disease
- Visiting the doctor regularly and doing regular monitoring and check-ups with doctor
Mayo Clinic’s breakdown of arthritis types
CONCLUSION:
Raising awareness about arthritis is essential for improving the lives of millions affected by this condition. Understanding the different types of arthritis—such as osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and psoriatic arthritis—helps people recognize that it is not just a disease of aging, but a group of disorders that can affect anyone, including children and young adults. Knowing the common symptoms, such as joint pain, stiffness, swelling, and reduced movement, allows for early recognition and timely medical attention. Early intervention plays a key role in managing arthritis effectively. When diagnosed and treated early, many people can prevent joint damage, maintain mobility, and continue living active, healthy lives. By spreading knowledge and encouraging early action, we can reduce the burden of arthritis and support better outcomes for those living with this condition.
Should you require any further information, please do not hesitate to post your query in the comment section.
