Arthritis

Arthritis

What is Arthritis?

Arthritis refers to a joint disorder characterised by pain, swelling, and tenderness in the joints. The condition may affect multiple joints.

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Arthritis?

The signs and symptoms of arthritis are:

• Pain in the joints
• Stiffness
• Swelling
• Decrease in the range of motion
• Redness of the skin around the affected joints
• Fatigue

What Causes Arthritis?

The causes of arthritis depend on the type of arthritis. Rheumatoid arthritis may occur due to autoimmune factors, where the body’s cells can attack the joint capsule leading to the destruction of cartilage and swelling. Osteoarthritis occurs due to overuse and wear and tear of the joints and tissues. 

What Are the Risk Factors for Arthritis?

Risk factors for arthritis are:

• Age: The risk of osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis increases with age.
• Gender: Women are more likely to develop rheumatoid arthritis compared to men.
• Obesity: Increased weight can cause stress on joints of the knees, hips, and spine. People with obesity are highly vulnerable to arthritis. 
• Family history: If someone in your family, such as parents or siblings, has arthritis, you are more likely to face a risk of developing arthritis.
• History of previous joint Injury: People who have a history of joint injuries while playing a sport or exercise are at risk of developing arthritis in joints due to potential joint damage.

Know the Complications

Arthritis can lead to the following complications:

• Difficulty in walking
• Unsteady gait and instability
• Severe pain and joint dislocation
• Permanent disability

When to See a Doctor?

Consult an orthopaedic surgeon if you have persistent pain and swelling in your joints.

Request an appointment at Apollo Spectra Hospitals

Call 1860-500-2244 to book an appointment

How is Arthritis Diagnosed?

Your doctor is likely to perform the following tests to diagnose arthritis:

• Physical examination of joints
• Assessment of range of motion
• Evaluation of swelling and redness around the joints
• Blood tests for antibodies and rheumatoid factors
• Evaluation of fluid present around the joints
• Imaging studies: X-rays, CT scans, and MRIs

How is Arthritis Treated?

There is no definite cure for arthritis. The disease can be controlled by providing medications and care to relieve pain and swelling. The treatment of arthritis involves the following methods:

• Medications for pain relief and reducing inflammation.
• Non-medicated methods such as ice packs and heating packs for pain relief.
• Use of over-the-counter (OTC) methods for pain relief such as creams and relief sprays.
• Physiotherapy to strengthen the muscles and joints
• Surgery for joint replacement.
• Other methods of treatment include occupational therapy and the use of joint assistive aids.

How Can You Prevent Arthritis?

If you are at risk of developing rheumatoid arthritis or have joint-related issues, self-management is the key to preventing arthritis.

• Stay physically active.
• Maintain a healthy weight.
• Prevent putting unnecessary stress on joints.
• Exercise regularly and balance your activity with adequate rest.
• Consume a balanced diet to prevent inflammation. 
• If you are overweight, consider weight-loss strategies and maintain a healthy weight.
• Switch to natural remedies such as exercising regularly, avoiding alcohol consumption, and cigarette smoking.
• At-home exercises can be beneficial in relieving pain and stiffness of joints.

Conclusion

Arthritis is a condition that damages the joints of your body. While there is no definite cure for the disease, you can seek treatment to reduce the severity of your symptoms. Additionally, you can make several lifestyle changes to help yourself manage your illness.