Arthritis is a medical condition characterized by inflammation, pain, stiffness, swelling, and limited mobility in one or more joints. This leads to cartilage breakdown, bone-on-bone contact, joint damage, impaired function, and reduced quality of life. Arthritis can manifest as either an acute or chronic condition, and its severity varies widely among individuals.
Types of Arthritis
Some of the most common types include:
1. Osteoarthritis (OA): Wear and tear on joints, most common type. Caused by cartilage breakdown, bone-on-bone contact, and joint inflammation.
2. Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA): Autoimmune disease causing joint inflammation, pain, and stiffness. Leads to joint damage and deformity if left untreated.
3. Psoriatic Arthritis (PsA): Autoimmune disease causing joint and skin inflammation. Characterized by red, scaly skin patches and joint pain.
4. Gout: Metabolic disorder causing sudden, severe joint pain and swelling. Usually strikes the big toe, but can also impact other joints, causing sudden and severe pain.
5. Fibromyalgia: Chronic pain and fatigue syndrome. Characterized by widespread muscle pain, tender points, and fatigue.
6. Lupus: Autoimmune disease affecting joints, skin, and organs. Can cause joint pain, skin rashes, and organ damage.
7. Ankylosing Spondylitis: Inflammatory arthritis affecting spine and large joints. Leads to spinal fusion and loss of mobility if left untreated.
8. Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA): Joint pain in children under 16. Causes joint pain, stiffness, and swelling, and can lead to growth problems.
9. Spondyloarthritis: Inflammatory arthritis affecting spine and joints encompassing a range of conditions including ankylosing spondylitis, psoriatic and reactive arthritis, which share similar characteristics and symptoms.
10. Reactive Arthritis: Joint pain and inflammation triggered by infection, typically in the genital or gastrointestinal tract.
11. Infectious Arthritis: Bacterial, viral, or fungal infection in joints. Requires prompt treatment to prevent joint damage.
Reference: Types of Arthritis
Causes and Risk Factors
Causes:
1. Wear and tear: Osteoarthritis is caused by the gradual wear and tear of joint cartilage, leading to bone-on-bone contact and pain.
2. Autoimmune disorders: Rheumatoid and psoriatic arthritis, and lupus are caused by an abnormal immune response, where the body attacks healthy joint tissue.
3. Infections: Septic arthritis is caused by a bacterial, viral, or fungal infection in the joint.
4. Genetics: Many types of arthritis have a strong genetic component, meaning they can run in families.
5. Injury or trauma: A sudden injury or repetitive strain can lead to osteoarthritis or other types of arthritis.
6. Metabolic disorders: Gout is caused by a buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints, often due to dietary factors or kidney issues.
7. Age-related changes: As we age, our joints naturally degenerate, leading to increased risk of osteoarthritis.
Risk Factors:
1. Age: Risk increases with age, especially after 40.
2. Family history: Having a family history of arthritis increases your risk.
3. Obesity: Excess weight puts additional strain on joints, increasing risk of osteoarthritis.
4. Previous joint injuries: Injuries can lead to osteoarthritis or other types.
5. Certain occupations: Repetitive strain or heavy lifting can increase risk.
6. Sedentary lifestyle: Lack of exercise can contribute to joint stiffness.
7. Poor diet: A diet high in sugar, salt, and unhealthy fats can increase inflammation and risk.
8. Smoking: Smoking can increase risk of rheumatoid arthritis and other types.
9. Gender: Some types, like osteoarthritis, are more common in women, while others, like gout, are more common in men.
10. Ethnicity: Certain types of arthritis are more common in specific ethnic groups.
Reference: Risk Factors
Symptoms
Here are the common symptoms of arthritis:
- Joint pain
- Joint stiffness
- Swollen joints
- Redness and warmth around joints
- Limited mobility
- Morning stiffness
- Fatigue
- Muscle weakness
- Crepitus (grinding or crunching sensation)
- Loss of function
- Difficulty with daily activities
Diagnosis and Treatment
Diagnosis:
1. Medical history and physical exam
2. Imaging tests (X-rays, MRI, CT scans)
3. Lab tests (blood work, joint fluid analysis)
4. Arthrocentesis (joint fluid withdrawal)
Treatment:
1. Medications:
– Pain relievers (NSAIDs, acetaminophen)
– Anti-inflammatory drugs (steroids, biologics)
– Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs)
2. Lifestyle modifications:
– Exercise (physical therapy, occupational therapy)
– Weight management
– Stress reduction
3. Alternative therapies:
– Acupuncture
– Massage
– Herbal supplements
4. Surgery:
– Joint replacement
– Joint repair
– Arthroscopy
Reference: Treatment Strategy