Understanding The Most Common Types of Arthritis

Arthritis is a comprehensive expression that encompasses over 100 distinct subtypes of the condition. The underlying causes and methods of treatment for each subtype vary, though certain types are more prevalent than others.

According to the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases, arthritis refers to inflammation of joints, which are the areas where two bones come together. Symptoms of this impairment of health typically include pain, stiffness, swelling, and redness in or around the joints. This is the leading cause of disability in the United States and impacts approximately 60 million adults and 300,000 children, as reported by the Arthritis Foundation. Although arthritis primarily affects bones, it can also cause damage to other body parts, including organs. Here are some of the most common types of arthritis:

Osteoarthritis

According to Healthline, the most widespread form of this impairment of health in the United States is osteoarthritis (OA). It generally arises after the age of 50 or 60 years and is more common in people who are overweight. Individuals with OA typically experience joint pain following periods of inactivity or rest. OA is a degenerative condition that causes a gradual breakdown of joint tissues over time.

Rheumatoid arthritis

In contrast to OA, which results from the gradual deterioration of joint tissues due to aging, rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a persistent autoimmune disorder that causes the body’s immune system to attack the joints and other tissues. According to the National Institute of this impairment of health and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases (NIAMS), RA can lead to medical issues in various parts of the body, including the eyes, lungs, blood, nerves, and heart, as well as the joints. RA occurs more frequently in women than men and individuals are more likely to develop the disease if there is a family history of it.

Psoriatic arthritis

This is a form of inflammatory arthritis that is associated with an autoimmune disorder. People with psoriasis, a skin condition, may develop psoriatic arthritis following the onset of skin symptoms. It is hypothesized that stress-inducing events, joint or bone trauma, or infections may prompt the development of the disease in individuals who already have psoriasis.

Gout

This kind results in painful flare-ups, frequently originating in the big toe or a lower limb. The condition arises when there is an elevated level of serum urate in the body, which forms needle-shaped crystals in and around the joint. Typically, gout manifests in middle age, with men experiencing it at an earlier age than women. Some individuals with gout may have a higher likelihood of developing chronic kidney disease, obesity, hypertension, and diabetes.

Care

Medical practitioners will conduct interviews and run blood tests to detect arthritis markers. A primary care physician may suggest that a patient consults with a rheumatologist to obtain a more comprehensive diagnosis of arthritis, as well as a treatment plan.

Treatments for this impairment of health may consist of analgesic medications, anti-inflammatory drugs such as NSAIDs or steroids, capsaicin creams to hinder pain signals, or immunosuppressants and biologics if the this impairment of health is caused by an autoimmune condition. Treatment plans are tailored to each patient.

Original Article on unionleader.com