Teen Health ~ Arthritis!

Arthritis treatment: [Rheumatoid Arthritis]

Arthritis is a joint disorder featuring inflammation. A joint is an area of the body where two bones meet. A joint functions to allow movement of the body parts it connects. Arthritis literally means inflammation of one or more joints. Arthritis is frequently accompanied by joint pain. Joint pain is referred to as arthralgia.

Arthritis is classified as one of the rheumatic diseases. These are conditions that are different individual illnesses, with differing features, treatments, complications, and prognosis. They are similar in that they have a tendency to affect the joints, muscles, ligaments, cartilage, and tendons, and many have the potential to affect internal body areas as well.

There are many forms of arthritis [over 100 have been described so far, and the number is growing]. The forms range from those related to wear and tear of cartilage [such as osteoarthritis] to those associated with inflammation as a result of an overactive immune system [such as rheumatoid arthritis]. Together, the many forms of arthritis make up the most common chronic illness in the world.

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What causes osteoarthritis?:

Although the exact cause of Arthritis is not known, some scientists believe that joint damage begins in response to physical stress [such as an injury or repetitive movement].

What are the symptoms of osteoarthritis?:

The most common symptoms of Arthritis include:

  • Steady or intermittent pain in a joint.
  • Stiffness after periods of inactivity, such as sleeping or sitting.
  • Swelling or tenderness in 1 or more joints.
  • Crunching feeling or sound of bone rubbing on bone when the joint is used.

Arthritis usually comes on slowly. Early in the disease, joints may ache after physical work or exercise. If you are experiencing symptoms such as joint pain and stiffness, see a doctor to find out if you have Arthritis.

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Arthritis sufferers include men and women, children and adults. Approximately 350 million people worldwide have arthritis. Over 20 million people in the India are affected by arthritis, including over a quarter million children! More than half of those with arthritis are under 65 years of age. Nearly 60% of Indian with arthritis is women.

Arthritis Symptoms

Where do symptoms of Arthritis typically appear?

Fingers: arthritis of the fingers is often hereditary, meaning it runs in families. Fingers may ache or be stiff and numb. The base of the thumb joint is commonly affected. Fingers can become enlarged and gnarled. Small, bony knobs may also appear on the end joints of the fingers. Similar knobs can appear on the middle joints of the fingers. More women than men have arthritis of their fingers. Women become especially susceptible to arthritis after menopause.

Knees: Because knees are primary weight-bearing joints, they are very commonly affected by Arthritis. They may be stiff, swollen, and painful, making it hard to walk, climb, and get in and out of chairs and bathtubs.

Hip: Arthritis in the hip can cause pain, stiffness, and severe disability. In addition to your hip, you may feel the pain in your groin, inner thigh, or knees. This can lead to difficulty moving, bending, and walking.

Spine: Arthritis of the spine can cause stiffness and pain in the neck or in the lower back, as well as weakness or numbness in your arms or legs.