Arthritis
Arthritis affects more than 50 million adults, but it doesn't impact everyone the same way. There are more than 100 different types. While these types vary somewhat, every form of arthritis impacts the joints, causing pain and stiffness and making it harder to move around comfortably. The two main types of arthritis — osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.
In rheumatoid arthritis, the body's immune system attacks the lining of the joint capsule, a tough membrane that encloses all the joint parts. This lining (synovial membrane) becomes inflamed and swollen. The disease process can eventually destroy cartilage and bone within the joint.
Osteoarthritis (OA) is by far the most common type of arthritis. It can damage almost any joint but mainly occurs in the hands, spine, hips and knees. OA is a degenerative joint disease that can affect the many tissues of the joint; bones in affected joints become weaker, the connective tissue that holds the joint together deteriorates and inflammation damages the joint lining.
Although the prevalence of OA tends to increase with age, it’s not an inevitable part of growing older. You can help prevent joint problems by staying active, maintaining a healthy weight and limiting foods that stoke inflammation like red meat, highly processed foods and sugar, and eating more foods that reduce inflammation.
Symptoms:
The most common signs and symptoms of arthritis involve the joints. Depending on the type of arthritis, signs and symptoms may include:
- Pain
- Stiffness
- Swelling
- Redness
- Decreased range of motion
- Family history. Some types of arthritis run in families, so you may be more likely to develop arthritis if your parents or siblings have the disorder.
- Age. The risk of many types of arthritis — including osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis and gout — increases with age.
- Your sex. Women are more likely than men to develop rheumatoid arthritis, while most of the people who have gout, another type of arthritis, are men.
- Previous joint injury. People who have injured a joint, perhaps while playing a sport, are more likely to eventually develop arthritis in that joint.
- Obesity. Carrying excess pounds puts stress on joints, particularly your knees, hips and spine. People with obesity have a higher risk of developing arthritis.
Treatment:
Treatments vary depending on the type of arthritis. The main goals of arthritis treatments are to reduce symptoms and improve quality of life. If you think you may be suffering from arthritis, in any form, connect with your primary care provider to discuss your concerns.
Prevention and Management:
- Maintain a healthy weight.
- Be active.
- Do not smoke.
- Eat a healthful diet that’s low in sugar.
- Discuss medication options with your healthcare provider.
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