ARTHRITIS

Arthritis is a chronic inflammatory condition that affects the joints, causing pain, stiffness, and limited mobility.

Types of Arthritis:

1. Osteoarthritis (OA): Wear and tear on joints, commonly affecting hips, knees, and hands.

2. Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA): Autoimmune disease causing inflammation and joint damage.

3. Psoriatic Arthritis (PsA): Combination of psoriasis and joint inflammation.

4. Gout: Sudden, severe joint pain due to uric acid buildup.

5. Fibromyalgia: Widespread muscle pain and fatigue.

6. Lupus: Autoimmune disease affecting multiple systems, including joints.

7. Ankylosing Spondylitis: Inflammation of spine and large joints.

Causes of Arthritis:

1. Genetics

2. Age

3. Obesity

4. Injury or trauma

5. Infections (e.g., Lyme disease)

6. Autoimmune disorders

7. Metabolic disorders (e.g., gout)

8. Environmental factors (e.g., pollution)

Symptoms of Arthritis:

1. Joint pain and stiffness

2. Swelling and redness

3. Limited mobility and flexibility

4. Fatigue and weakness

5. Morning stiffness

6. Clicking or grinding sensations

7. Deformity or loss of function

How Arthritis Works:

1. Inflammation: Immune system response causing joint damage.

2. Cartilage breakdown: Loss of joint cushioning.

3. Bone-on-bone contact: Joint pain and stiffness.

4. Synovial fluid changes: Reduced lubrication.

5. Muscle weakness: Reduced support and stability.

Diagnosis of Arthritis:

1. Medical history

2. Physical examination

3. Imaging tests (e.g., X-rays, MRI)

4. Blood tests (e.g., rheumatoid factor, anti-CCP)

5. Joint fluid analysis

Treatment Options for Arthritis:

Medications:

1. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)

2. Corticosteroids

3. Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs)

4. Biologics

5. Pain relievers

Non-Pharmacological:

1. Physical therapy

2. Occupational therapy

3. Exercise and stretching

4. Weight management

5. Assistive devices (e.g., canes, walkers)

Surgical Options:

1. Joint replacement

2. Joint fusion

3. Osteotomy

4. Arthroscopy

Lifestyle Changes:

1. Maintain a healthy weight

2. Exercise regularly

3. Quit smoking

4. Manage stress

5. Protect joints from injury

When to Seek Medical Attention:

1. Persistent joint pain or stiffness

2. Swelling or redness

3. Limited mobility

4. Sudden severe pain

5. Fever or chills

Consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Arthritis Statistics:

1. Affects 54 million Americans

2. Leading cause of disability in the US

3. Prevalence increases with age

4. Women more likely to develop RA

5. Obesity increases OA risk

Arthritis Resources:

1. Arthritis Foundation

2. American College of Rheumatology (ACR)

3. National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases (NIAMS)

4. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) - Arthritis