Arthritis
Overview Arthritis refers to inflammation of a joint. The inflammation may cause pain, swelling, stiffness, and damage. What are the signs and symptoms of the condition? Symptoms vary according to the type of arthritis and how severe it is. However, common symptoms include the following: difficulty with weight-bearing activities, such as walking, bending, and moving joint deformity joint stiffness, especially in the early morning limping or making other adjustments to protect the affected joint warmth or redness in a joint weakness of the joint What are the causes and risks of the condition? There are many types of arthritis, with a host of different causes, such as: ankylosing spondylitis, which affects the spine and other joints arthritis caused by mechanical problems, such as a bone fracture or dislocation gout, caused by an accumulation of uric acid crystals in the joint infectious arthritis, caused by infections such as Staphylococcus, Streptococcus,Lyme disease or gonorrhea osteoarthritis, a degenerative process also known as wear-and-tear or degenerative arthritis pseudogout, caused by an accumulation of calcium pyrophosphate crystals in the joint psoriatic arthritis, an autoimmune disorder that is related to and often accompanies a skin condition of the same cause called psoriasis reactive arthritis, which may develop after an infection of the urinary tract, bowel, or other organs rheumatoid arthritis (RA), an autoimmune disorder in which the body makes antibodies to its own tissues lupus, an autoimmune disorder which often includes arthritis and rash and may include heart, lung, kidney, and brain involvement Some of the risk factors for arthritis are as follows: aging changes in the bones and joints bodywide infections that affect the joints diabetes genetic or hereditary tendency to arthritis immunodeficiency disorders, such as HIV injury to the joints menopause, which increases a woman's risk for osteoarthritis overweight or obesityΒ smoking, which doubles a woman's risk for RA What can be done to prevent the condition? Reducing repetitive strain on muscles and joints may help prevent arthritis. Be on the lookout for any chronic aches and strains caused by work, hobby, or recreation-related activities. For example, if you think your work is causing joint symptoms, you may want to see about changing tasks or modifying your workstation. How is the condition diagnosed? Diagnosis of arthritis starts with a medical history and physical examination. Joint X-rays may be normal at first, perhaps showing some swelling. What are the long-term effects of the condition? If the arthritis progresses, joint function may keep declining. The person will have more joint pain, stiffness, and swelling. The amount and rate of decline depend on the type of arthritis and how well the available treatments work. What are the risks to others? Arthritis is not contagious. It poses no risk to others. If the arthritis is caused by an infection, such as gonorrhea, the infection may be contagious. What are the treatments for the condition? Treatment varies depending on the type of arthritis, the severity of symptoms, and the degree to which the condition has progressed. The age, general health, and activity level of the person also are factors to consider. Education about the disease can help bring about improved daily self-management and coping skills. Foods high in protein, iron, and vitamins contribute to tissue building and repair. Physical activity is important in the treatment of arthritis. Thirty minutes of moderate exercise a day can help to prevent complications of arthritis, as well as heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. Low impact aerobics and water aerobics are two exercises that minimize joint stress. A recent study focused on adults with osteoarthritis who used tai chi, a form of Chinese exercise that uses slow, fluid movements. Study participants reported better management of their symptoms, along with improved physical and mental health. What are the side effects of the treatments? All Alopathic Medicines used to treat arthritis may cause stomach upset, allergic reaction, and decreased resistance to infection. Surgery may cause bleeding, infection, or allergic reaction to anesthesia. What happens after treatment for the condition? Most types of arthritis require lifelong treatment. Exercises to maintain range of motion and muscle strength are very important.
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