What is Arthritis: Causes and Symptoms Arthritis

Arthritis is one of the most common medical conditions that causes inflammation and stiffness in the joints.

There are many different types of arthritis, including osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and psoriatic arthritis.

Moreover, it affects millions of people of all ages, genders, and races worldwide. According to statistics, more than 30% of adults are suffering from different types of arthritis.

It can cause severe joint problems that stop the patients from performing their regular activities, like walking, standing, jumping, and more.

To better understand this joint condition, the best Arthroscopy Ligament Surgeon in Patna, Bihar, discussed the causes and symptoms of arthritis.

Whether you’re suffering from arthritis or seeking to support a loved one, this blog will provide valuable insights.

But before getting to the causes and symptoms, you must know the major types of arthritis, as every type is unique.

Types of Arthritis

There are many different types of arthritis, each with its own unique symptoms and causes.

Here are some of the most common types of arthritis:

1. Osteoarthritis (OA): This is the most common type of arthritis, often caused due to ageing and wear and tear of the joints.
2. Rheumatoid arthritis (RA): An autoimmune disorder that causes the body’s immune system to attack the joints, leading to inflammation and damage. You must also have a look at the Symptoms and Causes of Rheumatoid Arthritis.
3. Psoriatic arthritis (PsA): A form of arthritis that can occur in people with psoriasis, a skin condition.
4. Gout: A type of arthritis that results from a buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints.
5. Infectious arthritis: A type of arthritis caused by an infection in different body joints, including the hand, knee, shoulder, hip, and more.

These are just a few of the many types of arthritis (common ones). It’s important to consult a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan according to your type.

Now, it’s time to head to the common causes of arthritis!

Causes of Arthritis

Here are some specific causes of arthritis broken down into sections based on the types of arthritis:

#1. Osteoarthritis (OA)

• Aging (often occurs after the age of 55 years).
• Wear and tear on the joints.
• Repetitive or overuse of the joints, especially knees.
• Injuries or damage to the joints.
• Obesity and excess weight.

However, the causes of osteoarthritis are not completely understood, but it’s believed to be the result of some common factors.

#2. Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)

• Autoimmune disorders in which the body’s immune system attacks its own tissues
• Genetic.
• Environmental factors, such as smoking or exposure to certain viruses or bacteria.
• Hormonal factors (women are more likely to develop RA than men).
• Joint infections.
• Other autoimmune disorders.

Note: Not everyone who has these risk factors will develop RA, and some people who develop the condition may not have any of these.

#3. Psoriatic Arthritis (PsA)

• Autoimmune disorders.
• Genetic factors.
• Inflammation caused by psoriasis.
• Physical trauma.
• Genetically predisposed to the condition.

Moreover, people with other autoimmune disorders, such as lupus or rheumatoid arthritis, are also prone to PsA.

#4. Gout

• High levels of uric acid in the blood.
• Metabolic abnormalities.
• A diet high in purines (found in red meat, seafood, and alcohol).
• Obesity or overweight.
• Certain medical conditions, such as hypertension and diabetes.
• Genetics factors.
• Certain medications affect uric acid levels.

Note: Men are more prone to develop gout than women, and it more commonly occurs in older adults.

Uric acid is a waste product that is normally filtered out by the kidneys and eliminated in the urine, but when the body produces too much uric acid or can’t eliminate it properly, it can accumulate in the blood and cause gout.

#5. Infectious Arthritis

Infectious arthritis, also known as septic arthritis, is a type of arthritis caused by an infection in the joint. Here are the causes of infectious arthritis:

• Bacterial, viral, or fungal infections can spread to the joint and cause infectious arthritis.
• Lyme disease.
• Infections can enter the joint through open wounds, surgery, or injection.
• In some cases, the infection may start in another body part and spread to the joint through the bloodstream.
• People with weakened immune systems, such as those with HIV/AIDS, diabetes, or cancer, are at increased risk for developing infectious arthritis.
• Sexually transmitted infections, such as gonorrhoea or chlamydia, can also cause it.

Thus, these are the most common causes of arthritis, depending on the type. Now have a look at the symptoms.

Note: These are some potential causes of each type of arthritis, and the actual cause can vary from person to person.

A healthcare professional can help determine the underlying cause of an individual’s arthritis and develop an appropriate treatment plan.

Symptoms of Arthritis

The symptoms of arthritis can vary from person to person, depending on the type of arthritis and the severity of the disease.

However, the Total Hip Replacement Doctor in Patna suggests some of the most common symptoms, including:

• Severe and chronic joint pain.
• Joint stiffness.
• Swelling and tenderness in the affected joint.
• The lower range of motion.
• Redness and warmth near the affected joint.
• Fatigue and weakness.
• Fever (in some cases).
• Difficulty while performing everyday tasks.
• Joint deformities (in some cases).

Thus, these are some of the most common symptoms of arthritis that patients notice. It, especially pain, may increase or worsen with time.

So, if you notice any of these symptoms, you must consult a professional healthcare provider or doctor to get a proper diagnosis and treatment.

Conclusion

Arthritis is a common chronic disease that causes inflammation and stiffness in the joints, leading to pain, swelling, and a lower range of motion.

Many people are affected by many different types of arthritis, each with its own unique set of symptoms and causes.

However, there are no particular causes for this joint problem. One can get affected due to several factors, including genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors.

You’ll experience several symptoms of arthritis (if suffering), such as pain, stiffness, swelling, lower range of motion, and more.

In the upper sections of the blog, we’ve discussed the potential causes and symptoms of arthritis that you must know.

Overall, if you’re diagnosed with arthritis, regardless of the causes and what symptoms you notice, you must consult the best Orthopedic Doctor in Patna for proper treatment.