Arthritis: Facts You Need To Know

Arthritis is a condition that affects the majority of adults worldwide, making it one of the most prevalent chronic health conditions globally. Arthritis is not a single disease but a term that describes a group of conditions affecting the joints and surrounding tissue. Arthritis may be generally categorized as degenerative arthritis, inflammatory arthritis, metabolic arthritis, and infectious arthritis. However, the two predominant types of arthritis are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.

Osteoarthritis: Osteoarthritis is a degenerative condition that occurs when the cartilage cushioning the joints wears down over time. This condition can cause the bones to rub together, leading to pain, stiffness, and loss of mobility. Osteoarthritis is most common in older adults but can also occur in younger people due to injury or overuse. 

Rheumatoid Arthritis - Rheumatoid arthritis, on the contrary, is an autoimmune disease in which the body's immune system attacks the lining of the joints. It leads to inflammation, pain, and stiffness. Rheumatoid arthritis may also affect other body parts, such as the lungs and blood vessels. 

Risk Factors and Symptoms of Arthritis

Arthritis can affect people of all ages, but certain factors can increase the risk of developing the condition, which includes:

• Aging

• Genetics and family history

• Being overweight and obesity 

• Joint injuries

• Occupation

Though different types of arthritis exhibit different symptoms, which vary with severity, the most common indications of arthritis are:

●      Pain: This can range from a dull ache to a sharp pain.

●      Stiffness: This is especially common in the morning or after sitting for a while.

●      Swelling: The affected joint may appear swollen and red.

●      Limited range of motion: The joint may be difficult to move or may not move as easily as it once did.

Diagnostic Procedures and Treatment Strategies for Arthritis

Diagnosis of arthritis is complicated as many symptoms resemble other bone diseases and joint conditions. Diagnosing arthritis typically involves 

• Reviewing medical history

• Analyzing the current symptoms.

• Physical examination of the joint

• Laboratory tests and imaging tests, such as X-rays, ultrasounds, or MRIs.

• Perform an arthrocentesis (the procedure of removing fluid from a joint).

There is no cure for arthritis, but a variety of treatment options are available to help manage the symptoms and improve quality of life. Depending upon the type and severity, the treatment may include the following:

• Non-surgical measures: These include medications such as over-the-counter pain relievers and anti-inflammatory drugs, physical therapy, and lifestyle changes such as weight loss, regular exercise, and stress management.

• Surgical interventions: In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to repair or replace a damaged joint.

Medications prescribed for arthritic patients

• Pain relievers: Over-the-counter medications such as acetaminophen and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can help to relieve pain and inflammation

• Disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs): These medications are used to halt the progression of rheumatoid arthritis and prevent joint damage.

• Biologic response modifiers: These are a newer class of drugs that target specific parts of the immune system to reduce inflammation and slow down joint damage.

Physical Therapy 

Physical therapy can help to improve joint mobility, reduce pain and swelling, and improve overall function. It may include exercises to improve strength, flexibility, and range of motion, as well as applying heat or cold therapy and assistive devices such as crutches or canes.

Lifestyle Changes recommended for patients with arthritis

Lifestyle changes such as maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly, and managing stress can help improve symptoms and reduce the risk of complications. Eating a nutritious diet, rich in fruits and vegetables and low in processed foods, can also help to manage inflammation and improve overall health.

Common Misconceptions about Arthritis 

Despite its prevalence, there are still many misconceptions about arthritis. Here are a few of the most common myths and the facts to dispel them:

• Arthritis only affects older adults: While arthritis is more common in older adults, it can affect people of all ages. 

• Arthritis is only a minor inconvenience: Arthritis can be a debilitating condition that significantly impacts the patient's quality of life. It can cause severe pain, limit mobility, and make it difficult to perform daily activities.

• Only older adults get osteoarthritis: While osteoarthritis is more common in older adults, it can also occur in younger people due to injury or overuse.

• Only women get rheumatoid arthritis: Rheumatoid arthritis affects women more often than men, but men can also develop the condition.

The Bottom Line

Arthritis is a common and prevailing skeletomuscular disorder affecting joints, causing inflammation and pain. With proper diagnosis and management, most people with arthritis can cope with the manifestation and maintain a good quality of life. It is essential to know the risk factors, symptoms, and treatment options for arthritis to manage the disease and boost overall well-being. Working with a healthcare provider to develop an individualized treatment plan that works best for you is vital.