Arthritis
The swelling and pain of one or more joints are symptoms of arthritis. Joint stiffness and pain are the primary signs of arthritis, and these symptoms often get worse with age. Rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis are the two most prevalent kinds of arthritis.
Cartilage, the tough, slick tissue that covers the ends of bones where they come together to create a joint, deteriorates as a result of osteoarthritis. The immune system targets the joints in rheumatoid arthritis, starting with the lining of the joints.
Gout can be brought on by uric acid crystals, which develop when your blood uric acid level is too high. Other forms of arthritis can be brought on by infections or underlying conditions like lupus or psoriasis.
The type of arthritis and the treatments differ. Treatments for arthritis primarily aim to lessen symptoms and enhance quality of life.
Symptoms
The most common signs and symptoms of arthritis involve the joints. Depending on the type of arthritis, signs and symptoms may include:
- Pain
- Stiffness
- Swelling
- Redness
- Decreased range of motion
Causes
Joints are harmed differently by the two primary kinds of arthritis, osteoarthritis and rheumatoid.
Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis, the most prevalent type of arthritis, is caused by wear and tear to a joint’s cartilage, which is the tough, slippery coating on the ends of bones where they form a joint. When cartilage is sufficiently damaged, bone can grind directly against bone, causing pain and limiting movement. Cartilage cushions the ends of the bones and allows for practically friction-free joint motion. This deterioration may take place gradually over many years or may be sped up by an infection or joint damage.
The connective tissues that connect muscle to bone and keep the joint together are also harmed by osteoarthritis, which also affects the bones. The lining of the joint may swell and become inflamed if the cartilage in the joint is significantly damaged.
Rheumatoid arthritis
In rheumatoid arthritis, the body’s immune system targets the thick membrane that surrounds all the joint elements in the joint capsule. This lining (synovial membrane) swells and becomes irritated. Bone and cartilage in the joint may eventually be destroyed by the illness process.
PREVENTION
You can lower your chances of developing arthritis by:
- Avoiding tobacco products.
- Doing low-impact, non-weight bearing exercise.
- Maintaining a healthy body weight.
- Reducing your risk of joint injuries.
