What is Arthritis?

 

Arthritis is a swelling in your joint(s). The symptoms are joint pain & stiffness. These symptoms usually get worse as you get older.

 

 

What types of Arthritis are there?

 

  • The two main types of arthritis are rheumatoid arthritis & osteoarthritis.
  • Osteoarthritis is due to wear and tear or injury. The cartilage where the joints of bones meet breaks down. Cartilage is a bit like the enamel on teeth. It is a shiny covering that allows bones to not rub against each other. It protects the bones from damaging each other as they move against (grind) each other. This damage occurs over years and gets worse and worse with time. When this protective cartilage breaks down the body’s immune system flags the issue, and this sets off an inflammatory reaction which leads to swelling
  • Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disorder. The immune system “overreacts” and the body “turns on” the lining of joints (synovium). The lining of the joint becomes inflamed which puts pressure on the cartilage of the bones. The cartilage then becomes damaged and the joint becomes more swollen. This leads to permanent damage to the joint even when the autoimmune response is reduced by drug therapy. It is a disease that can occur at any age, it is more aggressive than osteoarthritis.
  • Other types of arthritis are caused by Uric acid crystals, infections, or underlying diseases, such as psoriasis or lupus.

 

 

 

 

What are the symptoms of Arthritis?

 

  • Joint Pain
  • Joint Stiffness, particularly in the mornings
  • Swelling of joints
  • Redness & heat in area of swelling
  • Decreased ability to move

 

 

Who gets Arthritis and what factors put someone more at risk of getting arthritis?

 

1.     Family history of arthritis. Some forms of arthritis are hereditary.

2.     Aging. As you get older you are more likely to have arthritis

3.     Gender. Women are more likely than are men to develop rheumatoid arthritis. Men are however more like to get gout (a type of arthritis).

4.     Injury. People who have an injury are more likely to have arthritis.

5.     Obesity. Excess weight puts pressure on your joints (particularly knees, hips & spine). This pressure leads to joint damage and arthritis.