Types of Arthritis
There are over 100 types of arthritis, and these diseases affect more than 46 million individuals in the U.S. alone. This figure is expected to breach the 60 million mark before 2030. Various types of arthritis are unique and distinct from each other and each type has its own treatment approach. This highlights the necessity and importance of accurate tests and diagnostic procedures in determining the specific type of arthritis that a person is suffering from.
Once you are able to isolate the triggers of the pain and inflammation associated with the disease, then you will be able to undertake the necessary steps in finding relief from the effects of the disease and maintain a relatively normal daily routine.
Diversity of the Types of Arthritis
If you live long enough, there is a strong likelihood that you will experience a touch of at least one of the more than 100 types of arthritis. This chronic medical condition can take the form of a mild tendinitis and bursitis or a debilitating systemic disease like rheumatoid arthritis. There are also some forms of arthritis and arthritis-related conditions such as fibromyalgia and systemic lupus erythematosus that are widespread and affect different parts of the body.
Arthritis is not a medical condition of the old. There are certain types of the disease that specifically affect infants and children, and these include juvenile rheumatoid arthritis and septic arthritis. There are also a significant number of men and women who are suffering from this disease at the prime of their lives. A common denominator for these types of arthritis is the presence of musculoskeletal and joint pain, and this is the primary reason why these conditions are collectively referred to as arthritis.
Major types of arthritis include:
This type of arthritis is a degenerative disease and is also referred to as arthrosis, degenerative joint disease or degenerative arthritis. Osteoarthritis is the most common type of arthritis. It is a medical condition that is characterized by low-grade inflammation which triggers persistent pain in the affected joints. This condition is the result of the progressive deterioration of the cartilage, and its deteriorated condition affects its capacity to protect and act as cushion of the joints.
Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic autoimmune disorder that primarily affects the joints. It is a painful and debilitating inflammatory condition and can lead to substantial impairment of normal mobility as a result of the persistent pain and damage to the affected joint. Rheumatoid is also a systemic condition and can affect the extra-articular tissues in various parts of the body. These include the muscles, lungs, hearts, blood vessels and the skin. The highest incidence of the disease is observed in men and women within the 30-60 years age range.
Gout is characterized by the sudden and severe episodes which usually affect the big toe, although any joint is prone to these gout attacks. This type of arthritis is a metabolic problem brought about by the accumulation of uric acid in the bloodstream. The precursor of the condition is the buildup of harmful crystals in the joints and other parts of the body. Specific medications and proper diet are essential in the control and management of gout.
Ankylosing spondylitis is a chronic inflammatory disorder that affects the spine. In its advanced stage, the condition is characterized by the stiffness of the spine and fusion of the vertebrae. In most cases, it is more difficult to detect and diagnose the disease in women than in men. The persistent pain and discomfort are the results of the inflammation in the vertebrae or spinal joints. Aside from the fusion of the vertebrae, the abnormal bone growth can lead to immobility and forward-stooped posture.
Ankylosing spondylitis can also lead to stiffness, pain and inflammation on the other parts of the body, including the joints of the hands and feet, heels, ribs, hips and shoulders. There are also some rare cases where the disease can affect the eyes, a condition known as Uveitis or Iritis, as well as the heart and lungs.
Juvenile arthritis, or simply JA, is a chronic disease that is associated with the inflammation of one or several joints. This disease affects individuals below the age of 16. The inflammation is the common denominator of the various forms of juvenile arthritis, although such forms of the disease have distinct nuances and require different treatment modes.
Psoriatic arthritis is the type of arthritis that is common in patients who are suffering from a chronic skin disorder known as psoriasis. It has some similarities with rheumatoid arthritis, although most patients who have psoriatic arthritis exhibit mild to moderate symptoms. This chronic disorder affects both men and women, and it can lead to further complications and serious health problems when left untreated. The progress of the disease is generally slow and affects specific joints.
Septic arthritis is brought about by haematogenous spread of infection, although there are instances where the condition is triggered by the introduction of infecting agents from adjacent infection, as in the case of osteomyelitis, or through a penetrating wound. The condition is common in children and premature neonates, although it can also affect the elderly and individuals who are immune suppressed.
There is no cure for arthritis, but there are several treatment modes that we can use to alleviate or mitigate the effects of the disease. Among your options are several natural arthritis treatment options that have been proven to be effective and safe when used in the management of the disease.