Arthritis

What is Arthritis

Arthritis is the inflammation of joints. The word arthritis is used for any disorder that affects the joints, tissues surrounding joints and connective tissues. Joints are the places where your bones connect such as your knees, hips, wrists, or fingers. Arthritis can affect one or more joints. There are more than 100 types of arthritis and all have different causes and different treatments. The main focus of the treatment of arthritis is to reduce the symptoms and enhance the quality of life.

The most common types of arthritis are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. In Osteoarthritis the cartilage( hard and slippery tissue) gets breaks down. Cartilage covers the ends of bones where they form a joint.

Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disorder that targets the lining of joints (synovium).

Arthritis usually affects people above 60 years of age but it can affect people of all ages. It is more common in overweight people and women.

Causes and Symptoms of Ankylosing Spondylitis

Causes:

There are many factors that can cause arthritis in a person, there can be different causes for different types of arthritis. Some common causes of arthritis are:

1. Injuries
2. hereditary/Inheritance
3. Infections
4. Reduction in cartilage tissue.
5. Abnormal immune system
6. Weak metabolism
7. Diet and nutrition can cause gout arthritis.

Symptoms:

Symptoms of arthritis develop gradually in a person but in some cases, sudden onset of symptoms can be observed. The most common symptoms of arthritis are:

1. Pain in the joints
2. Stiffness in the joints
3. Decreases range of motion
4. Tenderness
5. Swelling of the affected joints and the surrounding area.
6. Redness of the skin around the affected joint.
7. Weakness
8. Loss of appetite
9. Decreased amount of red blood cells
10. Weight loss
11. Poor sleep
12. Unable to use hands and legs more the movement.
13. Muscle aches
14. Muscle weakness
15. Loss of flexibility
16. Aching around the joints
17. Fatigue

In some cases, the body becomes very stiff and doesn’t move an inch.  All the symptoms of arthritis disturb the normal life of a person to a large extent, in some cases, the social life of the patient completely disappears due to the pain and immobility. Early diagnosis and early treatment is the key to getting relief from arthritis.

Preventions for Arthritis:

1. Maintain a normal weight, as per medical standards. Few extra kilograms can put pressure on joints like knees, hips or wrists which could result in pain or inflammation.
2. Limiting sugar intake is a good step in controlling weight. A lot of sugar consumption can cement tissues which can result in stiffness in joints.
3. Exercising for 30 minutes a day helps in keeping your body fit. It helps in keeping the body agile and strengthens the muscles.
4. Avoid intake of tobacco items like cigarettes, hookah, etc. Smoking affects the tissues which surround the joints and puts pressure on them resulting in arthritis.
5. Stretch a little when you move around, which can help in keeping joints in check and helps avoiding arthritis
6. Consult a specialist doctor about do’s and dont’s when you go for a check up. Medical guidance can help prevent arthritis
7. Be careful about your movement and use protective gear and helmets while cycling or playing any sports which can cause injuries. Any injury in old age may speed up arthritis.