Main Types of Arthritis
The most common forms of arthritis are osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, gout and fibromyalgia, according to the Centers for Disease Control. Arthritis can be painful and nearly completely debilitating for some. Understanding these diseases and disorders is one of the best ways to prevent, treat and manage your arthritis.
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Rheumatoid Arthritis
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Rheumatoid arthritis appears when the lining of the joints become inflamed. The precise cause of rheumatoid arthritis is unknown, but it is thought to be linked to autoimmune disease, genetics, or an infection. Rheumatoid arthritis typically appears in the smaller joints in the fingers and wrists, but it can affect any joint in the body. Physical symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis are weakness, flu-like symptoms, fatigue and muscle pain. Anti-inflammatory drugs are used to treat pain and irritation. Some people choose to undergo surgery to remove the diseased lining.
Osteoarthritis
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Osteoarthritis is one of the most common and oldest forms of arthritis. Researchers have yet to pinpoint its exact cause, but it appears to be influenced by age, weight and genetics. Symptoms of osteoarthritis include joint soreness, morning stiffness, limping and pain and swelling of the finger joints. If you have osteoarthritis in your spine, you may experience pressure in the spinal cord, pain in the lower back and stiffness in the neck. Early diagnosis of osteoarthritis is crucial for effective treatment. Most medications are geared toward relieving pain. Replacement surgery involves surgical reconstruction of the joint.
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Gout
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Gout occurs when needle-shaped crystals collect in the tissues and joints. Gout can cause impaired kidney function, kidney stones and lumps of the crystals in the joint, under the skin and in the bone. Some causes of gout are medications like diuretics, a recent joint injury or surgery, and lead. Production of too much or too little uric acid, a naturally occurring enzyme in the body, can also cause gout. Resting the joint and aggressive use of anti-inflammatory drugs are used to treat gout.
Fibromyalgia
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Fibromyalgia is characterized by lasting pain and tenderness in particular parts of the body. The term fibromyalgia literally means "pain in the muscles, ligaments, and tendons," according to the Arthritis Disease Center. The exact cause of fibromyalgia is unknown, but it's thought to be related to genetics, environmental triggers and stress. Fatigue and sleep disturbance are among the most common symptoms, as are irritable bowel syndrome, dry mouth and uncontrollable eye movements. Pain killers and anti-inflammatory medications are commonly used with exercise and therapy.
Prevention
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Maintaining an appropriate body weight by eating a well-balanced diet helps prevent gout and osteoarthritis. Protecting your joints from injuries can also help prevent gout. Avoid drinking and smoking, since both of these habits weaken bone structure.
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