Arthritis

Depending on the cause, arthritis is classified as follows:

• Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common type; the cartilage that cushions the joints wears down, leading to stiffness and pain.
• Inflammatory arthritis occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks the lining of the joint, causing swelling and pain. Examples include rheumatoid arthritis (RA), ankylosing spondylitis (which often affects the spine), and psoriatic arthritis (linked with psoriasis).
• Gout develops when uric acid crystals build up in the joints, often starting in the big toe and causing sudden, intense pain.
• Juvenile arthritis affects children under 16 years of age and may interfere with growth and joint development.

The symptoms of arthritis vary but may include:

• Ongoing or occasional joint pain, especially in weight-bearing joints such as the knees and ankles
• Swelling around the affected joints due to inflammation.
• Morning stiffness or stiffness after long periods of rest.
• Reduced movement in the joint, which can make daily tasks difficult.
• Warmth and redness over the joint, especially in inflammatory types such as rheumatoid arthritis (RA).

The major causes of arthritis are as follows:

• Getting older is the main risk factor for most types, except juvenile arthritis.
• Women are more likely to develop certain types, such as RA and lupus.
• Having a family history of arthritis can increase risk, especially for OA and RA.
• Carrying excess weight puts strains on weight-bearing joints, such as the knee joints.
• Previous joint injuries or repetitive strain can increase the risk of developing secondary osteoarthritis (OA).
• Autoimmune  disordersincrease the likelihood forms of arthritis.

Doctors use a combination of tests to diagnose arthritis:

• Physical examination is done to check for joint swelling and overall joint function.
• Medical history helps assess the severity and duration of symptoms and whether there is a family history of arthritis.
• Blood tests may measure the levels of inflammation-specific markers, such as the erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), C-reactive protein (CRP), autoimmune antibodies (such as rheumatoid factor for RA), and uric acid levels in suspected gout.
• Imaging studies such as X-ray or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) can show cartilage loss, bone changes, and joint damage.

Based on the severity and type of arthritis, one or more of the following treatment methods are recommended:

• Non-surgical treatment: Non-surgical treatment methods vary depending on the type and severity of arthritis; one or more of the following methods may be used:
  • Medicines to reduce the intensity of symptoms or slow disease progression:
    • Pain relievers such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
    • Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) for rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and other inflammatory arthritis.
    • Urate-lowering medications to treat gout.
  • Physical therapy to strength muscles, improve flexibility.
  • Lifestyle modifications such as weight management, joint protection strategies, and regular exercise.
• Surgical treatment: Surgical treatment may be recommended for severe cases, such as joint replacement or arthroscopy, to repair or replace damaged parts of the joint.
   

Patients are advised to visit a doctor if they have persistent joint pain, swelling, or stiffness that does not improve with rest, if your symptoms interfere with daily life, or if you experience sudden, severe joint pain (as in a gout attack).

Although not all types of arthritis can be prevented, you can lower your risk by:

• Staying physically active and doing regular stretching and strengthening exercises.
• Maintaining a healthy weight to reduce strain on the joints.
• Protecting your joints from injuries during work or sports.
• Controlling long-term conditions, such as diabetes or thyroid problems, which serve as risk factors for arthritis.

If you suspect arthritis, you should see a rheumatologist or an orthopaedic specialist. A physiotherapist can also help with exercises and rehabilitation, while a nutritionist may advise on weight and diet management.