How to Recognize Arthritis Symptoms

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The term arthritis indicates a rheumatic disease that affects joints, the tissues which surround the joint, and other connective tissue. The word arthritis means joint inflammation, and is used to define over 100 rheumatic conditions. These conditions are indicated by pain, stiffness, and swelling in and around your joints. The following article will help you recognize the symptoms of arthritis.

Steps

1. Know if you are at risk for arthritis. The following are factors associated with higher risk:
   • Genes. There are distinguishing genes that create a higher risk of certain types of arthritis (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus).
   • Gender. Men are more likely to have gout. Women make up 60% of those who have arthritis.
   • Age is a determining factor. You are at a higher risk of having arthritis as you grow older.
2. Be aware that there are types of arthritis that are modifiable, meaning they can be altered or the degree lessened. Modifiable risk factors include:
   • Obesity. Being overweight contributes to the onset and advancement of knee osteoarthritis.
   • Joint Injuries. Damage to a joint can be partly responsible for the development of osteoarthritis in that joint.
   • Infection. Microbial agents can infect joints and possibly cause the advancement of differing types of arthritis.
   • Occupation. Certain jobs requiring repetitive knee bending and/or squatting are linked with osteoarthritis of the knee.
3. Recognize the symptoms of arthritis. The location and pattern of symptoms change depending on the form of arthritis. The following is a list of the most common symptoms to look for:
   • Stiffness in or around joint.
   • Pain in or around joint.
   • Swelling around the joint.
4. Be aware that the beginning development of arthritis symptoms can occur gradually or suddenly.
5. Understand that arthritis is most often a never-ending disease. Symptoms may appear and disappear or they may linger a long time.
6. Know that despite the fact that there is no cure for most types of arthritis, early diagnosis and proper management are essential, particularly for inflammatory forms of arthritis.

Tips

• The diagnosis of arthritis sometimes depends upon a detailed medical history of present and past symptoms, a physical exam, blood work, and X-rays.
• It is possible to suffer with multiple forms of arthritis at once.
• The treatment of arthritis might include one or more of the following:
  • Medication
  • Drug-free therapies:
    • Patient education
    • Splints or joint assistance aids
    • Physical or occupational therapy
    • Weight loss
  • Surgery
• Only fresh pineapple has an enzyme in it that helps fight inflammation.
• Controlling appropriate body weight has been proven to lower the risk of acquiring gout and osteoarthritis.
• Protecting your joints from injuries or repetitive use can decrease the risk of osteoarthritis.

Warnings

• If you suspect you may have arthritis, see your health care provider as soon as possible. Early diagnosis and disease modifying drugs can alter the course of some forms of rheumatoid arthritis.

Related wikiHows

• How to Live with Arthritis
• How to Get Rid of Arthritis Pain
• How to Know if You Have Arthritis in the Knee

Sources and Citations

• http://www.cdc.gov/arthritis/arthritis/faq.htm#1
• http://www.cdc.gov/arthritis/data_statistics/index.htm
• http://www.cdc.gov/arthritis/intervention/index.htm

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