Understanding Arthritis: Causes, Types, and Management

Arthritis involves inflammation of the joints, which connect bones and facilitate smooth movements. When joints become inflamed, it leads to pain and impairs daily activities. The condition can affect one or multiple joints, with monoarthritis involving a single joint, oligoarthritis affecting two or three, and polyarthritis involving four or more.

Major Types of Arthritis
Among various forms, two are most prevalent and often become chronic conditions in the US:
Osteoarthritis results from cartilage deterioration or injury-related wear and tear.
Rheumatoid arthritis occurs when the immune system attacks joint tissues, causing inflammation.

Causes of arthritis vary based on its type. Injury is a common trigger for osteoarthritis, while genetic factors and metabolic issues like gout can also contribute. Infections from bacteria or viruses may lead to inflammation, especially in rheumatoid arthritis, a type of rheumatic disease affecting joints, tendons, ligaments, and sometimes internal organs.

Symptoms initially include joint swelling, pain, and stiffness. Additional signs can include tenderness, redness, warmth, fatigue, fever, weight loss, decreased appetite, gland swelling, chest discomfort (if lungs are affected), and shortness of breath.

Diagnosis is typically carried out by a rheumatologist who assesses symptoms, medical history, and may order X-rays or lab tests to determine the specific type of arthritis and gauge severity.

Management strategies depend on the arthritis type but often focus on symptom relief. Common treatments include anti-inflammatory medications, acupuncture, cold therapies, surgical interventions, paraffin wax treatments, and immune-modulating drugs. While there is no permanent cure, proper treatment and lifestyle changes can effectively control symptoms.