Arthritis Basics

Arthritis Basics is a term for a group of more than 100 diseases. The word "arthritis" means "joint inflammation."

Inflammation is one of the body's natural reactions to disease or any injury that includes swelling, pain and stiffness. Inflammation that lasts for a very long time or recurs, as in arthritis, can lead to tissue damage.

In case of arthritis, an area in or around a joint becomes inflamed, causing pain, stiffness and

sometimes, difficulty moving. Some types of arthritis also affect other parts of the body, such as the skin and internal organs.
Types of Arthritis - Precautions- Calcium intake
There are more than 100 different types of arthritis. Some of the more common types are
Osteoarthritis This is the most common type of arthritis that occurs when the cartilage covering the end of the bones gradually wears out. Without the protection of the cartilage, the bones begin to Precautions- Calcium intake against each other and the resulting friction leads to pain and irreversible swelling.

Rheumatoid arthritis. Rheumatoid arthritis is a long-lasting disease that can affect joints in any part of your body but most commonly the hands, wrists, and knees. In this type of arthritis, the immune system mistakenly attacks itself and causes the joint lining to swell. The inflammation then spreads to the surrounding tissues, and can eventually damage cartilage and bone.
Symptoms - Precautions- Calcium intake
Different types of arthritis have different symptoms that varies in severity from person to person. Symptoms of various types of arthritis may include fatigue, fever, a rash and the signs of joint inflammation, including:

* Pain
* Swelling
* Stiffness
* Tenderness
* Redness
* Warmth

Causes

* Age. The risk of developing arthritis, Precautions- Calcium intake osteoarthritis, increases with age.
* Gender. In general, arthritis occurs more frequently in women than in men.
* Obesity. It puts extra stress on weight-bearing joints, increasing wear and tear, and increasing the risk of arthritis, especially osteoarthritis.
* Work factors. Some jobs that require repetitive movements or heavy lifting can stress the joints and cause an injury that can lead to arthritis, particularly osteoarthritis.

Diagnosis

Osteoarthritis is typically diagnosed with a complete medical history, including a description of your symptoms, and physical examination. Imaging techniques such as X-rays or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) are used to show the condition of the joints. If other types of arthritis are suspected, laboratory tests on blood, urine or joint fluid may be helpful in determining the type of arthritis. These tests also help rule out other diseases as the cause of your symptoms.

Treatment
The aim of treatment is to provide pain relief and increase joint mobility and strength. Treatment options include medication, exercise, heat/cold compresses, use of joint protection and surgery. Your treatment plan may involve more than one of these options. Consult your doctor as soon as possible and the treatment process carries on for months.
Prevention

* Maintaining a healthy weight. Excess weight puts strain on your joints.
* Exercising. Keeping your muscles strong can help protect and support your joints.
* Obesity. It puts extra stress on weight-bearing joints, increasing wear and tear, and increasing the risk of arthritis, especially osteoarthritis.
* Using joint-protecting devices and techniques at work. Proper lifting and posture can help protect your muscles and joints.
* Eating a healthy diet. A well balanced, nutritious diet can help strengthen your bones and muscles.