Arthritis is a disease associated with the joints. Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease that happens to be the primary cause of disability among the people of fifty-five years of age or older. This disease attacks cartilage, a tissue responsible for protecting the joints and allowing them to move. Reduction in the amount of cartilage in bones results in pain, swelling, and stiffness.
Primary Causes of Arthritis:
The primary causes of arthritis are yet to be established but doctors believe virus, bacteria and fungi are the main reasons behind the disease. Some health experts suggest inherent reasons as the key factor behind the disease. Factors such as any previous injury, infections and allergic reactions are also held responsible for the arthritis. In some cases, certain foods and obesity also trigger the symptoms of the disease.
Symptoms of Arthritis:
The symptoms of the disease vary from one person to other depending upon the type of arthritis from which a person is suffering. The following symptoms of arthritis include:
- Warmth around a joint
- Loss of appetite
- Fatigue/loss of energy
- Loss of appetite
- Reduced ability or inability to move the joint
- Redness of the skin around a joint
- Stiffness, especially in the morning
Proper Diagnosis of Arthritis:
In order to diagnose and treat arthritis, doctors conduct laboratory and clinical tests. They undertake patients’ complete health history to confirm the intensity and symptoms of the disease. They also assess the exact location of the areas where inflammation is triggered. Once they complete laboratory tests, blood tests, and other assessments on the patient, they evaluate the whole scenario. An MRI test and CT scan is also conducted to establish the results. Based on the analysis and results of the tests, doctors recommend some effective medication.
How To Treat Arthritis and The Drugs Used:
Doctors suggest various physical therapies and a few medications to handle the ailment. In some cases surgery correction is also recommended after measuring the severity of inflammation. Hydrotherapy, physiotherapy and occupational therapy are recommended to the patients as per their medical conditions and observing the way they respond to the arthritis drugs. Celebrex is the primary medication that doctors prescribe to treat the disease.