How Do People Get Arthritis?
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Aging
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Osteoarthritis is a degenerative disease where the cartilage of your joints breaks down, causing the bones to rub together. Osteoarthritis is the most common type of arthritis and affects more women than men after the age of 50. The symptoms include pain and stiffness in your joints, particularly after idle periods, or after excessive motion. The disease can begin at the age of 40 or even earlier, and it will get progressively worse with age. Obesity and excessive stress on your joints can aggravate the disease.
Rheumatoid Arthritis
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Although it is not known what causes rheumatoid arthritis, it is known to be an autoimmune disease. Rheumatoid arthritis affects the lining of the joints with inflammation, causing pain and stiffness. It is a chronic disease for which there is no cure. It can eventually lead to disability as you lose your ability to function. It can be diagnosed by a blood test, but the test is not always accurate. Your doctor can take X-rays to aid in the diagnosis. There are many treatments available to help relieve pain and inflammation, as well as to slow the progress of the disease.
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Juvenile Arthritis
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Juvenile arthritis is rheumatoid arthritis that affects children under 18. Juvenile arthritis symptoms include pain, joint swelling and limited motion that can result in deformity. Improper bone growth can cause stunted growth. It is diagnosed through blood and urine tests, as well as X-rays. There are many types of juvenile arthritis.
Other Types of Arthritis
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Some other forms of arthritis and related diseases include ankylosing spondylitis, psoriatic arthritis, gout, fibromyalgia, lupus and Sjogrens syndrome. A doctor can diagnose the specific form of arthritis.
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