Arthritis is a medical condition that is loosely translated to represent joint inflammation. There are over 100 different types of arthritis that can affect the joints in your body and the tissues that surround your joints. In most cases patients will experience an ample amount of pain and stiffness around their joints and it will severely impact their mobility.

Who is at risk for arthritis?

There are a variety of factors taken into consideration when someone might be at risk for developing arthritis. Some of the most common include: age (the older you are, the more likely you are to have arthritis), gender (60% of sufferers are women), genetic components (specific genes may put you at risk), obesity, previous joint injuries, and occupation.

How does arthritis develop?

Many medical conditions can lead to the development of arthritis, but it is most commonly caused because of heightened levels of uric acid in the body. There are several types that don’t have a specific cause, which has lead researchers to look further into genetics and environment.

What is the most common type of arthritis?

Out of over 100 different types of the disease, the most common in North America is osteoarthritis. Gout, rheumatoid arthritis, and fibromyalgia are also quite common.

What are the symptoms of arthritis?

Depending on the severity of the disease and your body, the symptoms that you experience will vary. In most cases you’ll have stiffness in your joints accompanied by pain. These symptoms can either develop gradually over time or they can happen overnight.

Is arthritis acute or chronic?

Unfortunately arthritis is one of the most well known chronic conditions.

Should I see a doctor if I have arthritis?

It is imperative that you seek medical assistance in the event that you think you are developing arthritis. Even if you notice that you have a small amount of swelling and stiffness in your joints, you should book an appointment. By talking to a medical professional you can have your specific type of arthritis diagnosed and receive a reliable treatment plan to help promote a regular lifestyle with limited pain and discomfort.

Is arthritis preventable?

Considering that some types of the disease are genetic, not all types of arthritis are preventable. There are steps that you can take to lower your risk of developing the disease through lifestyle and environmental means, such as maintaining a healthy body weight and taking supplements to protect your joints and bones.