Arthritis is a condition that affects millions of Americans of all ages. This is an ailment in which an individual experiences inflammation of joints. There are several different types of arthritis based on which part of the body is affected along with its cause. The most common types of arthritis are rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis.
Symptoms of Arthritis
Since it is an inflammation of joints or affected body parts, the most common symptoms of arthritis are
- Joint pain
- Decreased range of motion
- Redness of skin around the affected part (joints)
- Swollen joints
Causes of Arthritis
Human joints have a cushion named cartilage between joints. It is a connective tissue and is responsible for absorbing the shocks and pressure when you move your joints. A reduction in this connective tissue causes arthritis.
Some of the common causes of arthritis can be
- Age and normal wear and tear of the connective tissue
- Accidents affecting your joints
- An autoimmune disorder where your immunity system attacks the tissue in your joints
- Weight & Lifestyle
- Genetic traits like having HLA class II genes
Arthritis is diagnosed with several physical examinations to check the level of fluids in your joints. Certain blood tests like anti-CCP and ANA helps in diagnosing if a patient is suffering from arthritis or not.
Additionally, common methods like X-rays, MRIs, and imaging scans can also be performed to check if the cartilage in the joint is worn out or not.
Once you are diagnosed with arthritis, you can take pain medications suggested by your doctor. Under normal conditions, analgesics, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs can help. You can also take immunosuppressants to reduce the inflammation in your joints.
Other methods of treatment are surgery, physical therapy, and major lifestyle changes to cope with arthritis.
Lifestyle Changes You Can Try
Physical activity can be very effective in coping with arthritis. It can not only reduce pain but also improve your mood and prevent other health conditions. Make sure you prepare a routine and follow it based on your arthritis symptoms.
Weight management is another way through which you can cope with arthritis. More weight means you are putting more pressure on your joints. Additionally, when you reduce weight you reduce the risk of other chronic health conditions like diabetes.
Protecting your joints or affected areas are a common way by which you can keep your arthritis in check. If you have had a previous injury, make sure you consult with your physical therapist and choose any low-stress activities to keep them active. Some of the most common ones you can try are biking or swimming.
One in every four US citizen suffers from arthritis. While you can control some risk factors, others cannot be controlled and need proper treatment. If you are suffering from arthritis, make sure you take the above-mentioned steps to lead a healthy lifestyle. The healthier you are, the better protected may be from arthritis and other progressive or chronic health conditions.