Arthritis is a disease that causes many inconveniences such as acute/chronic pain, inflammation, and limited movement of affected joints (1,2). Contrary to common misconceptions, there are many types of arthritis. The types of arthritis recognized by the CDC are osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, gout, childhood arthritis, and psoriatic arthritis (3). In some cases, arthritis can be caused by lupus, which is an autoimmune disease which affects various parts of the body (3).
Osteoarthritis is caused by aging, trauma to the joints, and obesity (2). It is also more prevalent in females (2). In easier terms, this type of arthritis is caused by "wear and tear" (3). Rheumatoid arthritis is caused by the interaction of specific genetic factors and environmental factors (2). This interaction causes immune system dysfunction which causes the rise of this autoimmune disorder (2). Rheumatoid arthritis can affect all the joints as well as the heart and lungs (1). Gout causes the one-by-one inflammation of the joints, caused by the buildup of uric acid (1,2,3). Gout is more commonly found in males, with other factors such as; age, kidney disease, alcoholism, and drug use coming into play (2). Childhood arthritis is characterized by the early onset of stiff and inflamed joints (1,3). This type of arthritis can eventually cause deformed joints and disabilities (1). Psoriatic arthritis is a type of arthritis that works alongside psoriasis (3). This causes chronic pain, swelling, and inflammation (3). Arthritis can be diagnosed through many different tests, but blood tests seem to be the most telling. Blood work that tests for; antinuclear antibody test, complete blood count, creatinine, hematocrit, rheumatoid factor (RF), cyclic citrullinated peptide antibody test (CCP antibody test), white blood cell count, and uric acid (1). The RF and CCP counts can help diagnose rheumatoid arthritis, as well as its severity (1). The uric acid counts can help diagnose the presence of gout (1). X-rays, urine tests, and biopsies can also diagnose arthritis (1).
Although treating arthritis is not easy, several things can be done to reduce the symptoms. For osteoarthritis, some simple lifestyle changes could manage the symptoms. Weight loss, increased physical activity, and medications are some of the basic ways that osteoarthritis can become more bearable (4). Joint replacement surgery can also be an option, although the risks and recovery time for the surgery come with this decision (4). Another thing that could be an option is getting tools that alleviate the pressure and "wear and tear" put on the joints. Crutches, canes, and inner shoe soles can be effective in relieving the pain (4). Childhood arthritis can be helped with lifestyle changes similar to the ones listed for osteoarthritis. Rheumatic arthritis is usually treated with a medication called disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (also known as DMARDs), which aid in slowing the disease (5). Gout flare-ups can be prevented by making dietary changes. Losing weight and reducing the intake of foods that are high in purine could reduce gout flare-ups (5). Keeping your overall uric acid levels low will prevent gout as well (5). To treat psoriatic arthritis, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as Advil and Motrin are commonly used (6). Topical creams, and corticosteroids may also be used for psoriatic arthritis (6). For severe cases of psoriatic arthritis, tumour necrosis factor (TNF) inhibitors may be used (6). These inhibitors work to target specific proteins in the body that promote inflammation (7). The reduction in inflammation eases up the joints, making it less painful to move around.
Although arthritis is a disease that affects the quality of life, some simple lifestyle changes may help to make it more bearable. Simple changes in diet and exercise regimes can provide a lot of relief to the joints. It is always best to get checked early on if you have any suspicion or any symptoms listed. If arthritis is caught early on, the prevention techniques can help make sure that your situation does not get worse. It is better to protect your joints as soon as possible. But as the title says, arthritis requires a "joint" effort between your healthcare providers and you to solve it.
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