Arthritis

Arthritis: causes, symptoms and treatments

Arthritis is a disease that is characterized by inflammation in one or more joints. This can lead to pain, limited movement, deformity and even disability. Arthritis is one of the most common diseases in the world, and according to the World Health Organization, more than 350 million people suffer from arthritis.

The causes of arthritis can be different. Some forms of arthritis may be hereditary, while other forms may be caused by injury, infection, or autoimmune disorders. Some risk factors that can increase your chance of developing arthritis include being overweight, lack of physical activity, stress, and a diet high in saturated fat and sugar.

Symptoms of arthritis can vary depending on the type and severity. Some of the most common symptoms include tenderness, swelling, limited movement, creaking and clicking in joints, and fatigue and weakness. In some cases, arthritis can lead to joint deformation and loss of function.

Treatment for arthritis may involve a combination of different methods, including medications, physical therapy, lifestyle changes, and surgery. Medicines may include analgesics, anti-inflammatory drugs and immunosuppressants. Physical therapy can help strengthen muscles and improve flexibility. Lifestyle changes may include losing weight, increasing physical activity, and changing your diet. In some cases, surgery may be required to repair the damaged joint or replace it with an artificial one.

Overall, arthritis can be a manageable disease if detected and treated early. It is vital to see your doctor if you have symptoms of arthritis or if you have risk factors that may increase your chance of developing it. Exercising regularly, losing weight and eating right can also help reduce your risk of arthritis and improve your overall health.

Arthritis: what is it and how to cope with this disease

Arthritis is a group of diseases that are characterized by inflammation of the joints. This is one of the most common joint diseases that can affect anyone, including children and adults. Experts believe that joint diseases are one of the most ancient problems of humanity, from which not only ancient civilizations suffered, but also our Neanderthal ancestors.

There are at least a dozen types of arthritis today. Each type of arthritis has its own causes and symptoms. Some types of arthritis are associated with age-related changes in the joints, while others are associated with immune system disorders or infectious diseases. Doctors call all joint lesions of an inflammatory nature the word arthritis.

There are two types of arthritis: monoarthritis and polyarthritis. Monoarthritis is characterized by damage to only one joint, and polyarthritis is characterized by damage to several joints. In addition, joint disease can be acute or chronic. Acute arthritis develops quickly and can cripple a person in a few weeks, or even days. Chronic arthritis does not manifest itself so sharply and can drag on for years, reminding itself only from time to time.

The causes of arthritis can be different. These can be diseases of the nervous system, metabolic disorders, hypothermia, injuries, infections and even lack of vitamins. The most common cause of inflammatory joint damage is infection. Having picked up some harmful bacteria, virus or fungus, our body tries to get rid of uninvited guests. For this, he has a special protective mechanism - immunity. To cope with the infection, the immune system begins to produce special substances (immune complexes) that help neutralize foreign particles. When the immune system is defective, there are too many of these substances and they begin to attack the joints.

To diagnose arthritis, you need to consult a specialist. The doctor will conduct an examination and listen to the patient’s complaints, after which he may prescribe biochemical and immunological blood tests, X-ray examination of joints, arthroscopy or magnetic resonance imaging. If internal organs are damaged, additional examination may also be required.

Treatment for arthritis depends on its type and cause. Infectious arthritis may require treatment with antibiotics, and for rheumatoid arthritis, medications that reduce inflammation and slow joint destruction. In addition, it is important to pay attention to your diet and lifestyle to strengthen your immune system and improve your metabolism.

Some treatments that can help with arthritis include exercise, massage, heat treatments, acupuncture and physical therapy. In some cases, surgery may be required.

Overall, it is important to see a doctor at the first sign of arthritis to begin treatment as early as possible and prevent further joint destruction. In addition, attention should be paid to the prevention of joint diseases, including proper nutrition, exercise and strengthening the immune system.