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Arthritis - causes, symptoms, and treatment

12 Dec 2024
305
arthritis

Arthritis is an umbrella term that refers to a variety of conditions affecting the joints, causing pain and swelling. It is a chronic condition that can significantly impact the patient's quality of life if not properly managed.

 In this article, we will highlight the symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment of arthritis, focusing on the role of arthritis injections as one of the available treatment options.

What is Arthritis?

Arthritis is a condition that causes swelling and inflammation in the joints, leading to pain and loss of natural movement. The disease can affect any joint in the body but is most common in the knees, shoulders, and hands.

Types of Arthritis

  • Rheumatoid Arthritis: An autoimmune disease in which the immune system attacks the joints, leading to inflammation and cartilage erosion.
  • Osteoarthritis (Degenerative Arthritis): Occurs due to the gradual wear and tear of the cartilage that protects the joints, most common among the elderly.
  • Gout: Caused by the buildup of uric acid in the joints, typically affecting the big toe joint.
  • Psoriatic Arthritis: Associated with the skin condition psoriasis and gradually affects the joints.

 

Symptoms of Arthritis

  • Chronic pain: Often in the affected joints, especially during movement or in the morning.
  • Joint swelling: Due to fluid buildup in the joint.
  • Joint stiffness: Especially after waking up or long periods of rest.
  • Redness and warmth in the joint: Seen in some types like rheumatoid arthritis.
  • Loss of ease of movement: Due to pain and stiffness.

 

Treatment for Arthritis

1. Medications

  • Pain relievers: To alleviate pain.
  • Anti-inflammatory drugs: To reduce swelling and inflammation.
  • Biological treatments: Targeting the immune system.

2. Physical Therapy

  • Strengthening exercises for the muscles surrounding the joint to improve support.
  • Light exercises like walking and swimming to enhance flexibility.

3. Local Injections

  • Steroid injections: To quickly reduce inflammation.
  • Hyaluronic acid injections: To improve joint flexibility.
  • Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections: To accelerate the repair of damaged tissues.

4. Surgical Intervention

Surgery may be required in advanced cases, such as joint replacement.

Preventing Arthritis Progression

  • Maintain a healthy weight to reduce joint stress.
  • Engage in regular exercise to improve joint strength and flexibility.
  • Avoid overexertion by balancing activity and rest.
  • Follow a diet rich in vegetables, fruits, and omega-3 fatty acids.

 

In conclusion, arthritis is a condition that can be managed and the quality of life improved through early diagnosis and appropriate treatment. If you experience symptoms such as joint pain or swelling, consulting a doctor and taking the necessary steps can help alleviate symptoms and prevent the condition from worsening.

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