Arthritis is a common yet often misunderstood health condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It causes joint pain, stiffness, and swelling, often making even everyday activities difficult. If left untreated, arthritis can significantly reduce one’s quality of life. In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about arthritis symptoms, causes, types, treatment and prevention, and guide you with natural and medical approaches to stay mobile and pain-free.
What Is Arthritis?
Arthritis refers to inflammation of one or more joints, leading to pain, swelling, stiffness, and reduced range of motion. It’s not a single disease but a term used for more than 100 types of joint disorders. Arthritis can affect people of all ages, including children and young adults.
Arthritis Symptoms
- Persistent joint pain and swelling
- Morning stiffness that lasts more than 30 minutes
- Redness and warmth around joints
- Difficulty moving or bending joints
- Fatigue and unexplained weight loss
- Limited range of motion
Arthritis Causes
- Autoimmune reactions: In conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, the immune system attacks healthy joint tissues.
- Ageing: The wear and tear of cartilage increases with age.
- Genetics: Family history can increase your risk.
- Injury or trauma: Previous joint injuries can lead to arthritis later in life.
- Obesity: Excess weight puts additional pressure on joints, especially knees and hips.
- Poor diet and sedentary lifestyle: Can contribute to inflammation and joint weakness.
Types of Arthritis
There are over 100 types of arthritis, but here are the most common and medically significant forms. Understanding these can help in early diagnosis and tailored treatment.
1. Osteoarthritis (OA)
Osteoarthritis is the most widespread form of arthritis, often referred to as “wear-and-tear” arthritis. It occurs when the protective cartilage that cushions the ends of bones gradually wears down over time.
2. Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)
Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic autoimmune disorder where the immune system mistakenly attacks the body’s own joint linings (synovium), causing inflammation, swelling, and pain.
3. Gout
Gout is a form of inflammatory arthritis caused by high levels of uric acid in the blood, which form needle-like crystals in the joints.
4. Psoriatic Arthritis
Psoriatic Arthritis is a chronic autoimmune condition that occurs in some individuals who have psoriasis, a skin disorder characterized by thick, red patches of skin covered with silvery-white scales. However, it’s important to note that joint symptoms can appear before, after, or without visible skin lesions in some cases.
5. Ankylosing Spondylitis
A lesser-known but serious type of arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis primarily affects the spine and sacroiliac joints (base of the spine).
Conclusion
Understanding the arthritis symptoms, causes, types, treatment and prevention can help you take the right action early. Whether you choose Ayurvedic solutions, modern medicine, or a blend of both, consistency is the key to managing arthritis effectively.
If you have any queries related to medical health, consult Subhash Goyal or his team members on this given no +91 99150 72372, +91 99150 99575
