What Are the Kinds of Arthritis?

Did you know that arthritis is described in more than 100 conditions and diseases that affect the body's joints and surrounding bones? While there are several types of arthritis pain, the most common symptoms will include continued pain in joints as well as some swelling. , if you feel that you could be suffering from arthritis you should contact your doctor for proper diagnosis, remedies, and treatment options.. Below you will find a brief overview of the most commonly diagnosed arthritis types.

Osteoarthritis 

The most common type of arthritis is osteoarthritis. This is the occurrence of reduced cartilage covering the end of the bones as they join together. As the cartilage begins to wear away, the bones no longer have the protection that they need to avoid rubbing up against each other. The common symptom of arthritis including pain and swelling will begin when this happens.

Osteoarthritis can happen in any joint in the body however, will most often affect the hands, and joints where weight bears down such as the knee, hip, and spinal joints. This is a very common type of arthritis however, this typically is only diagnosed as a result of aging or overuse which is why some medical professionals refer to it as the degenerative joint disease.

Rheumatoid Arthritis 

 Next on the list of common types of arthritis is Rheumatoid arthritis. This disease is known to last for a long time and can affect joints on any part of the body with the exception of the spinal joints. The disease like most forms of arthritis will affects commonly the knees, hands, and wrists.

When rheumatoid arthritis is suspected this typically means that the immune system which acts as a defense mechanism for the body has started to attack itself and as a result will cause joint linings to swell. Inflammation can begin to spread to surrounding tissues and over time can damage the bone and cartilage. For those with more severe cases, rheumatoid arthritis can also begin to affect other areas of the body including the eyes, lungs, nerves, and skin.

Gout 

When the body is no longer able to eliminate a natural substance known as uric acid gout can develop and be very painful. The excess uric acid in the body begins to form needle-like crystals in the joints that can cause severe pain as well as a lot of swelling. Gout commonly affects the big toe, knee, or wrist.

Tip! Stretching should be a daily activity to keep your arthritis symptoms under control. You can prevent injuries just by spending 10 minutes a day stretching all of your major muscle groups.

Psoriatic Arthritis 

Similar to rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis is a condition that is also described as being painful due to the swelling of the joints. It is generally associated with gray discoloration of the skin also known as psoriasis. Over time patients will see abnormalities in the nails and increased complications with the skin. 

Tip! Moist heating pads can offer relief for arthritis discomfort. You may want to purchase a heating pad that provides moist heat if your arthritis pain is severe and interferes with your ability to function normally.

Lupus

Not many people are aware of the fact that lupus is also a form of arthritis. When the immune system begins to attack its own tissues, it is categorized as an autoimmune disease that occurs. As a result it causes inflammation, swelling, pain, and damage to the joints and bones.

 Now remember these are just a few of the most common types of arthritis. With more than 100 variations out there, it is always best to have your doctor evaluate you to determine exactly what type you have and what your treatment options are.

Tip! Arthritis and stress flaring up get social. Having arthritis you might be tempted to stay home don't get out and get social.

Did you know that arthritis is described in more than 100 conditions and diseases that affect the body's joints and surrounding bones? While there are several types of arthritis pain, the most common symptoms will include continued pain in joints as well as some swelling.