Arthritis is a medical condition and a long term disease that leads to the severe inflammation of the joints and other surrounding tissues. Arthritis may be termed as the inflammation of the joints appeared in one or more areas of the body. There are over 100 different types of arthritis known. The symptoms of arthritis appear gradually in adults of 65 and above. The disease can also develop in children and teens as well.
Causes Of Arthritis:
Arthritis happens when cartilage breakdowns. Cartilage is a substance that protects joints and provides support ensuring smooth functioning of the joints. Cartilages are also responsible absorbing shock in the joints. Without the cartilage, the bones rub together and cause pain. Differentiating arthritis will depend entirely on the the signs and symptoms of the disease. The primary types of arthritis include Rheumatoid arthritis, Psoriatic arthritis,Gouty arthritis and Systemic lupus erythematosus.
Signs and Symptoms :
Osteoarthritis is the most common type of arthritis known so far. Apart from the inflammation, there are several symptoms that significantly appear during arthritis. The following are the primary symptoms of Arthritis:
- Rednes
- Swollen joint that’s tender and warm to the touch
- Joint pain
- Joint stiffness
- Loss of joint function
Some patients also complain about other symptoms such as fever, chills, fatigue and headaches during arthritis.
Diagnosis Of Arthritis:
A doctor may perform several tests in order to diagnose and confirm arthritis. While testing for osteoarthritis, doctors check if any bony swellings and creaking in joints exist. They also confirm if any restricted movement or instability happens. A few other tests are conducted to test your blood to asses other kind of arthritis. The following are tests performed to diagnose the arthritis:
- Blood tests
- X-rays
- A magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan
- A computerised tomography (CT) scan
- An ultrasound
- Synovial fluid analysis
- A biopsy
- A urine test
Diagnosis Treatment Methods:
There are different ways in which arthritis treatment takes place. Surgery, physiotherapy, occupational therapy is primary methods to treat the disease. These treatment procedures should be started under the observation of a trained doctor or physiotherapist. Medication is also an important method to treat Arthritis. Drugs such as Arthrotec, Celebrex, Myochrysine and Durolane are very effective indeed. You should however start taking it under the supervision of your doctor or pharmacist.