Introduction:
Arthritis is a term used to describe inflammation of the joints. It encompasses a group of more than 100 different conditions that affect the joints, causing pain, swelling, stiffness, and reduced joint mobility. Arthritis can impact people of all ages and genders, and it is one of the leading causes of disability worldwide.
The two most common types of arthritis are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, but there are many other types as well:
1. Osteoarthritis: This is the most common type of arthritis and is often referred to as “wear and tear” arthritis. It occurs when the protective cartilage that cushions the ends of bones in the joint gradually breaks down over time. Osteoarthritis most commonly affects weight-bearing joints like the hips, knees, and spine, as well as the hands.
2. Rheumatoid Arthritis: This is an autoimmune disease in which the immune system attacks the synovium (the lining of the membranes that surround the joints), causing inflammation and joint damage. It can affect multiple joints and also cause systemic symptoms like fatigue and fever.
2. Rheumatoid Arthritis: This is an autoimmune disease in which the immune system attacks the synovium (the lining of the membranes that surround the joints), causing inflammation and joint damage. It can affect multiple joints and also cause systemic symptoms like fatigue and fever.
Other types of arthritis include:
- Psoriatic arthritis
- Ankylosing spondylitis
- Juvenile idiopathic arthritis (arthritis in children)
- Gout
- Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE)
Symptoms of arthritis can vary depending on the type and severity of the condition, but common signs include:
- Joint pain and stiffness, especially in the morning or after periods of inactivity
- Swelling and warmth around affected joints
- Decreased range of motion
- Fatigue
- Muscle weakness
- Redness and tenderness around the joint
Diagnosis of arthritis typically involves a combination of medical history, physical examination, imaging tests (such as X-rays or MRI), and laboratory tests to rule out other possible causes and determine the specific type of arthritis.