Arthritis: Get the Basic Facts
Learn Key Information About Arthritis Types, Symptoms and Treatment
Jan 31, 2009
According to the Federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), more than 70 million Americans — or one in three — suffer from arthritis and/or chronic joint symptoms. That number is expected to climb as the so-called Baby Boom generation ages. Arthritis is the nation’s leading cause of disability, affecting both men and women and striking people of all ages, including infants and toddlers. Arthritis costs our nation about $128 billion a year – the equivalent of a moderate recession.
There are actually more than 100 identified forms of arthritis, and although all of them have some effect on the joints -- the word arthritis means "joint inflammation" -- different types of arthritis can also cause additional serious symptoms. Lupus, for example, can cause serious kidney damage, while rheumatoid arthritis can cause swelling and inflammation in the heart, lungs and lymph nodes.
The three most common forms of arthritis are:
- Osteoarthritis or “wear and tear” arthritis, which affects almost everyone as we age, but can be prevented or at least minimized;
- Rheumatoid arthritis, an autoimmune disorder that affects the skin and internal organs as well as the joints; and
- Fibromyalgia, a painful inflammation of the muscles and soft tissues that can also cause depression and insomnia.
Arthritis Can Be Controlled
While there is no cure for most forms of arthritis, many forms can be prevented or treated to minimize their painful effects – especially when diagnosed early. One example of a highly controllable type of arthritis is gout, which is caused by high levels of uric acid in the bloodstream. This excess uric acid is deposited in the form of tiny, sharp crystals in certain areas of the body, including the joints – most often the joints of the lower legs and feet.
Gout can often be spotted first as a terribly painful swelling of the big toe. Although excruciating, gout can usually be treated with diet and medication that reduces the level of uric acid in the patient’s bloodstream.
Other types of arthritis, such as osteoarthritis, can be prevented or minimized by maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly, and making sure to get proper treatment for any joint injuries, such as those suffered during sports.
Knowledge Is Power
Research shows that arthritis patients experience less pain and fewer swollen joints when they receive education and support in the form of written information, support groups, self-help courses and the like. Children who attend functions like day camps designed especially for kids with arthritis score higher in knowledge of their disease and understanding of how to manage it.
Anyone who thinks he or she might have symptoms of arthritis should see a rheumatologist – an internal medicine practitioner who specializes in joint diseases – as soon as possible. A rheumatologist can, through blood tests, X-rays and physical examination, diagnose the various forms of arthritis and recommend treatments ranging from medication to exercise, diet and physical therapy.
It’s most important not to ignore joint symptoms, such as morning stiffness, pain that prevents you from participating in normal activities, or joints that are red, swollen and hot to the touch. Learn the basic facts about arthritis and you may be able to prevent it, or at least minimize its effects. But no matter what, early detection is the key for any patient to learn all he or she needs to know to manage a potentially serious disease.
 |
