Arthritis

Arthritis from the Greek word “arthro” meaning joint and “itis” meaning inflammation, refers to a group of conditions which involves damage to the body’s joints and it is the leading cause of disability in people aged fifty-five years and over.

Sufferers of arthritis include men and women, children and adults. It is estimated that almost 350 million people all over the world have arthritis and that more than half of those with arthritis are under the age of 65. Also, half of those with arthritis are women.

Arthritis has different forms and each has a different cause. The most common form of arthritis though is osteoarthritis (which is the degenerative joint disease), this results from several factors such as trauma to the joint, infection of the joint, or age. Also, emerging evidence suggests that abnormal anatomy might also contribute to the early development of osteoarthritis. The other forms of arthritis are rheumatoid arthritis and psoriatic arthritis which are autoimmune diseases wherein the body attacks itself. A type of arthritis that is caused by joint infection is called septic arthritis. Gouty rthritis is caused by a deposit of uric acid crystals in the joint which then cause inflammation. An uncommon form of gout though is caused by the formation of rhomboid crystals of calcium pyrophosphate which is known as pseudo gout.

Pain and limited function of joints are the primary symptoms of Arthritis. Stiffness, swelling, redness, and warmth characterize the inflammation of the joints from arthritis and the affecting joint can also be tender.

Many of the forms of arthritis though, as they are rheumatic diseases, can also cause symptoms that affect other organs of the body that do not directly involve the joints. In some patients with certain forms of arthritis symptoms may also include fever, gland swelling (lymph node), weight loss, fatigue, feeling unwell, and even symptoms from abnormalities of organs such as the lungs, heart, or kidneys.

The treatment options for arthritis vary depending on its type and usually include physical and occupational therapy, lifestyle changes (which includes exercise and weight control), medications and dietary supplements which is symptomatic or targeted at the disease process which is causing the arthritis). In eroding forms of arthritis an arthroplasty or joint replacement surgery may be required by a doctor.

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Understanding Arthritis Recommended Resources:

UW Medicine - Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine

Health Link - Medical College of Wisconsin