WHAT IS ARTHRITIS?



For most people arthritis pain and inflammation is a normal process as the body ages. In fact, most people over the age of 50 show some signs of this disease. Joints naturally degenerate over time.

Arthritis is a term that includes a group of disorders that affect the joints and muscles. Arthritis symptoms include joint pain, inflammation and limited movement of joints. When a joint is inflamed it may be swollen, tender, warm to the touch or red. Surrounding each joint is a protective capsule holding a lubricating fluid to aid in motion. Cartilage, a slippery smooth substance, covers most joints to assure an even, fluid motion of the joint. With joint arthritis, the cartilage may be damaged, narrowed and lost by a degenerative process or by inflammation making movement painful.

There are over 100 types of this degenerating process and rheumatic diseases including osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and fibromyalgia.

MANAGEMENT OPTIONS

Fortunately, arthritis can be managed through a combination of medication, exercise, rest, weight-management, nutrition, and, in some cases, surgery. Arthritis is a chronic disease that will remain for a long time and possibly for the rest of the patient's remaining life. The treatments will probably change over time and medication may be adjusted.

SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS

There are many different signs and symptoms of arthritis. If one experiences pain, stiffness, or swelling around a joint for more than two weeks, then he should visit the physician. Only a physician can determine if this is because of arthritis. These symptoms may come up suddenly or slowly over time and may also include sleeplessness, fatigue, depression, and muscle aches.

The doctor will confirm the type of problem and will then prepare the course of treatment.