Arthritis

Please remember, we are not medical professionals and cannot provide medical advice. It is essential to seek the opinion of a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your medication or treatment. This information is for general knowledge and informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice.

Arthritis is not a single disease but rather a general term for more than 100 conditions that affect the joints, the points where two or more bones meet. The term itself comes from the Greek words "arthron" (joint) and "itis" (inflammation), essentially meaning inflammation of the joints.

However, the definition has broadened to encompass a range of disorders that cause damage to the joints, often resulting in:

Pain: This can range from mild to severe and may occur during or after movement or even at rest.
Stiffness: Joints may feel stiff, especially upon waking up or after periods of inactivity.
Swelling: The area around the affected joint may become swollen due to inflammation.
Reduced range of motion: It may become difficult to move the affected joint through its full range of motion.
Tenderness: The joint may be sensitive to touch.
Redness and warmth: The skin around the inflamed joint might appear red and feel warm.
Grating sensation: You might feel or hear a grinding, popping, or crackling sound when using the joint.
Bone spurs: In some types, extra bits of bone can form around the affected joint.

While joint pain and stiffness are the hallmark symptoms, some types of arthritis can also affect other parts of the body, including the skin, eyes, heart, lungs, and kidneys.

The underlying causes of arthritis vary depending on the specific type. Some common mechanisms include:

Degeneration of cartilage: This is seen in osteoarthritis, the most common type, where the protective cartilage that cushions the ends of bones wears down over time.
Autoimmune disorders: In conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, the body's immune system mistakenly attacks the lining of the joints.
Crystal deposits: Gout is caused by the formation of uric acid crystals in the joints.
Infections: Certain infections can trigger arthritis.

It's important to remember that because there are so many different types of arthritis, the symptoms, causes, and treatments can vary significantly. Consulting a healthcare professional is crucial for accurate diagnosis and appropriate management.