Arthritis

Arthritis

There are over 100 different types of Arthritis, the most common of which is Osteoarthritis. Arthritis causes pain and inflammation to the joints and often results in a lack of mobility around that joint.

Arthritis Defined

Arthritis is a condition of chronic inflammation in at least one joint in the body. There are many different types of Arthritis, all of which are characterized by joint pain.

Symptoms Of Arthritis

Symptoms of Arthritis are joint pain, swelling, stiffness, and decreased mobility around the inflamed joint. One suffering from Arthritis may also feel fatigued, have a fever, lose weight, or have muscle aches and pains.

Diagnosing Arthritis

Diagnosing Arthritis begins with a reviewing of your medical history with a doctor. Your doctor will also likely perform a physical exam to look for warm reddened skin over painful joints, and to feel for fluid in the joints. X-rays and blood tests can be helpful in determining the cause of the Arthritis and if there is any infection.

Causes Of Arthritis

Arthritis is a result of the breakdown of cartilage around the joints, allowing the bones to rub against each other. Some of the common causes of Arthritis include infection, broken bone, an autoimmune disease, or simply overuse.

Risk Factors Of Arthritis

Some risk factors of Arthritis are within an individual's control, while others are not. Controllable risk factors include weight, joint injury, and occupation. Being overweight can put you at a higher risk for Arthritis, and working in a position where your joints may suffer from repetitive wear and tear makes you more likely to suffer a joint injury and develop Arthritis. Other risk factors of Arthritis are age, gender, and genetics. Risk increases with age, and women are slightly more likely to have Arthritis.

Treatment For Arthritis

Treatment for Arthritis is aimed at reducing the joint pain and inflammation and increasing the mobility around the joint. Lifestyle changes such as exercise and physical therapy are common treatments for Arthritis. Weight loss can be an effective method of treatment if the individual is overweight. A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and omega-3's is also recommended. Medications are also commonly suggested for treatment of Arthritis. In some cases surgery may be a necessary treatment for Arthritis to repair or replace the joint.

Medications For Arthritis

Common medications for Arthritis are over the counter drugs such as Tylenol, ibuprofen, Naproxen, or Aspirin. Prescription medications for treatment of Arthritis include corticosteroids, immuno-suppressants, and biologics.

Recovery From Arthritis

Full recovery from Arthritis is unlikely as most types are not curable. However, with lifestyle changes and proper medications the pain and discomfort associated with Arthritis can be eliminated.

Prevention Of Arthritis

The best method of prevention of Arthritis is to avoid repetitive movements that cause stress to joints. If you have a known family history of Arthritis, be sure to consult your doctor on the matter as early diagnosis can be helpful in preventing further damage.