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Arthritis is a prevalent condition affecting millions of people around the world, especially as they age. It involves inflammation of one or more joints, resulting in pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. According to World Health Organization (WHO) data in 2019, approximately 520 million people globally suffered from osteoarthritis, which shows a staggering increase of 113% since 1990.
What causes arthritis?
Among the different types of arthritis, the most common are osteoarthritis (OA) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA).
Osteoarthritis is often referred to as “wear and tear” arthritis. It occurs when the cartilage, which acts as a cushion between the bones in the joint, slowly wears down over time. This wear and tear can cause the bones to rub against each other, resulting in pain, swelling, and stiffness.
In contrast, rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease where the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks the lining of the joints, causing inflammation and damage. This condition can affect multiple joints at once and cause symptoms throughout the body. Unlike osteoarthritis, RA can develop at any age.
Other forms of arthritis include gout, which is caused by the accumulation of uric acid crystals in the joints, and psoriatic arthritis, which is associated with the skin condition psoriasis.
symptoms of arthritis
Symptoms of arthritis vary depending on the type but generally include joint pain, stiffness, swelling and decreased range of motion. In cases of arthritis, additional symptoms may include fever and fatigue.
Arthritis Prevention
Although not all cases of arthritis can be prevented, the risk can be reduced by making certain lifestyle changes. Here are some strategies for potentially preventing arthritis:
Maintain a healthy weight: Many cases of arthritis can be prevented by controlling weight. Obese individuals have a higher risk of developing arthritis, as excess weight puts extra pressure on the knees.
Avoid injury: Minimizing injury to the knees can also help reduce the risk of developing arthritis.
Exercise regularly: Adding exercise to your daily routine can strengthen your muscles, which will help support your joints. When your muscles are strong enough to bear your body weight, the load on your knees is significantly reduced.
Adopt a healthy diet: Include foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, such as salmon, walnuts, chia seeds, flax seeds and soybeans, in your diet. These foods have anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce joint pain and swelling.
treatment of arthritis
Conservative treatment options to relieve symptoms include medications and physical therapy. Pain relievers such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen, are commonly used to reduce inflammation. For rheumatoid arthritis, disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) are prescribed to slow disease progression.
Ongoing physical therapy focuses on strengthening muscles and improving mobility. In severe cases, joint replacement surgery may be necessary, especially for hips and knees, and can provide patients with long-term relief.
living with arthritis
While arthritis can be debilitating, there are some ways to maintain a good quality of life. Early diagnosis and proper management are essential to living well with arthritis. With the right combination of treatment and lifestyle adjustments, many people with arthritis continue to live active and full lives. This article is authored by Dr. Simon Thomas
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