Arthritis is a condition characterized by swelling and tenderness in one or more joints. It is not a single disease but rather an umbrella term for a group of conditions that affect the joints. The main symptoms of arthritis are joint pain and stiffness, which typically worsen with age. There are several different types of arthritis, including osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, gout, and juvenile idiopathic arthritis, each with its own causes and symptoms.
Key points about arthritis include:
- Osteoarthritis: This is the most common type of arthritis and involves the wearing away of the cartilage that caps the bones in the joints. It was once considered a wear-and-tear disease, but further research has shown that it is a disease of the whole joint, not just cartilage.
- Rheumatoid Arthritis: This is an autoimmune form of arthritis where the immune system attacks the healthy joint tissues.
- Inflammatory Arthritis: In this type of arthritis, the immune system is overactive, attacking healthy tissue, including joints, and causing inflammation.
- Gout: This type of arthritis is caused by uric acid crystals forming when theres too much uric acid in the blood.
Its important to seek medical attention if you experience swelling or stiffness in the joints that doesnt go away in a few days or becomes painful to touch, as early diagnosis and treatment can help manage the symptoms and improve quality of life. Treatments for arthritis vary depending on the type and severity of the condition and can range from physical or occupational therapy to joint surgery.
Now, how is arthritis treated?
