Arthritis is a chronic condition that affects the joints in the body. Early symptoms of the disease are subtle and gradual, developing over weeks or months. As the disease progresses, the symptoms become more severe. The most common early symptom of the disease is morning stiffness lasting at least 30 minutes. In severe cases, the disease can also affect other organs and nerves in the body.
Symptoms
There are many common symptoms of arthritis, including stiffness and joint pain. Most common is stiffness in the morning, after sitting or standing for an extended period. The pain and stiffness can persist even after exercise. Another symptom is difficulty moving a joint, such as bending or straightening your knees. In some cases, the pain and stiffness may be so severe that they prevent you from doing everyday activities. Identifying the symptoms of arthritis is important in getting relief and getting back to your normal life.
The first step in diagnosing arthritis is to see a primary care physician. The doctor will ask you about your symptoms and perform a physical exam. The doctor will check for redness or warmth in the joints and fluid in them. If you are experiencing persistent symptoms, your physician will most likely recommend an appointment with a rheumatologist. Rheumatologists can help diagnose arthritis more accurately and diagnose it sooner.
As a result of arthritis, people with this condition are at an increased risk of falling or breaking a bone. This is primarily caused by the weakness of the muscles associated with arthritis. However, dizziness and pain medication can also lead to a fall. Those still in the workforce may also be affected by arthritis, making it essential to reduce the risk of injury to joints. Arthritis also affects one’s quality of life and can lead to depression or anxiety.
Causes
A doctor can perform imaging or laboratory tests to help determine what causes arthritis. Blood tests can help identify specific antibodies associated with certain types of arthritis. Examples include anti-rheumatoid factor antibodies (found in people with rheumatoid arthritis) or anti-cyclic citrullinated peptide antibodies (CCP) in people with SLE.
Arthritis can be debilitating and painful, leading to joint range of motion loss and deformity. It can also damage the tendons around a joint. Arthritis may affect any joint in the body and can be acute or chronic. In severe cases, it may damage organs.
There are many different types of arthritis, and the causes of each vary. Rheumatoid arthritis, for example, is an autoimmune disease in which the body mistakes its cells for foreign invaders and attacks them. Symptoms of this disease include swelling of the joints and red, swollen eyes.
Treatments
There are several different types of treatments for arthritis. Your healthcare provider will examine your joints and determine what is causing the pain and swelling. He or she will also ask you about other health problems you may be experiencing and your family’s medical history. Your doctor may also recommend imaging tests to diagnose the type of arthritis you have. These tests can help your doctor determine the treatment best for your specific case.
The main symptoms of arthritis include pain, stiffness, and reduced range of motion in the joints. You may also have red skin or experience difficulty walking. These symptoms may start gradually or appear suddenly. They may persist for months or even years. If the pain persists or worsens, you should consult with your doctor. Symptoms can also vary between different types of arthritis. Juvenile rheumatoid arthritis, for example, may cause eye problems, such as iritis or uveitis. Septic arthritis, on the other hand, can cause intense joint pain and may progress to sepsis.
Anti-inflammatory medications can help relieve symptoms and reduce the pain associated with arthritis. A low-fat diet is also an excellent option for reducing inflammation. It’s best to avoid fried and saturated fats and increase Omega-3 fatty acids through fish oil or oily fish. You can also take herbs to help alleviate your symptoms. Turmeric and ginger powder has been used to treat arthritis symptoms and can help with the pain.
Prevention
Preventing arthritis is a great way to reduce the pain you feel. One way to do this is by making certain dietary changes. For example, you should increase the amount of fibre in your diet. Also, you should limit the amount of fat and refined carbohydrates you consume. While making these changes might seem difficult, you should focus on making small changes that will make a big difference in your daily life.
Another way to protect yourself from arthritis is to be aware of any symptoms that may indicate an underlying condition. These warning signs may indicate a more serious ailment, such as an infection, or a side effect of medications you may be taking. In addition, you should consult with your doctor as soon as you feel any of these warning signs.
In 1989-91, arthritis was the most common chronic condition among women and the number one reason for activity limitation among women over the age of 15. By 2020, an estimated 36 million women will be affected by arthritis. The increased prevalence of arthritis is largely due to the ageing population in the United States.
