Introduction
Understanding the symptoms of arthritis can be daunting. Arthritis is a term for a wide range of joint pain and inflammation disorders, each with its own set of symptoms. Irritated cartilage, swollen joints, and loss of mobility are just some of the symptoms that patients report. This article will explore arthritis in depth and help you get a better understanding of these common complaints. In addition, we’ll also give you some tips on how you can manage them.
What is arthritis?
Arthritis is a general term for a group of more than 100 diseases that affect the joints, according to the Arthritis Foundation. These diseases can cause pain, stiffness and inflammation in the joints. Some types of arthritis can also affect other parts of the body, such as the skin or muscles.
There are many different types of arthritis, but the most common are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Osteoarthritis is a degenerative disease that occurs when the cartilage between the joints breaks down. Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease that causes the body’s immune system to attack the joints.
If you think you may have arthritis, it’s important to see your doctor for a diagnosis. There is no cure for arthritis, but there are treatments that can help relieve symptoms and improve quality of life.
What are the most common arthritis symptoms?
Symptoms of arthritis vary depending on the type of arthritis and the severity of the condition. However, common symptoms include pain, stiffness, swelling and redness in the joints. Some types of arthritis can also cause fatigue, fever and weight loss.
For more information on how to manage arthritis and other chronic conditions, learn about our teleconsultation services in the Philippines through our FAQs.
What causes arthritis?
There are many potential causes of arthritis. In some cases, it may be due to an injury or infection. In other cases, it may be a result of an autoimmune disease. And in still other cases, it may be the result of wear and tear on the joints from aging or overuse. No matter what the cause, though, the symptoms of arthritis are typically the same: pain, stiffness, and inflammation.
If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s important to see your doctor. They can help to diagnose the type of arthritis you have and recommend treatment options. Treatment for arthritis typically includes medication, physical therapy, and lifestyle changes.
What are the different types of arthritis?
There are many different types of arthritis, but the most common form is osteoarthritis. This is a condition in which the cartilage between your joints breaks down, causing pain and stiffness. Other forms of arthritis include rheumatoid arthritis (an autoimmune disease that attacks the joints), psoriatic arthritis (a form of arthritis that affects people with psoriasis), and gout (a form of arthritis that occurs when there is too much uric acid in the body).
Arthritis is definitely inconvenient and can impact many different parts of our lives, but it doesn’t have to, with early detection and management. To see how this can be made part of your life, you may want to learn a bit more about how EVA works.
What are the complications of Arthritis?
There are many potential complications of arthritis, some of which can be quite serious. Possible complications include:
- Joint damage. This can lead to pain, deformity, and disability.
- Infection. Arthritis causes joints to become inflamed, which can provide an entry point for bacteria. This can lead to serious infections, such as septic arthritis.
- Bone loss. Arthritis can cause bone loss and osteoporosis, a condition in which the patient develops thin, fragile bones.
- Eye problems. Some types of arthritis can cause inflammation in the eye, which can lead to vision problems or even blindness.
- Heart disease. Arthritis is a risk factor for heart disease, as it can contribute to inflammation in the arteries.
If you have arthritis, it’s important to see your doctor regularly to monitor for possible complications and take steps to prevent them. Learn a bit more about our doctors to see which of them would be able to help you best.
Tips for managing arthritis symptoms
While there is no specific cure for arthritis, many people who have the condition go on to live fulfilling and productive lives while managing its symptoms. Some of the most effective ways to do that include:
- Get regular exercise. Exercise can help to reduce pain and stiffness, and improve joint function.
- Use heat or cold therapy. Heat can help to relax muscles and ease pain, while cold can help to reduce inflammation.
- Manage your weight. Extra weight puts extra stress on joints, which can make arthritis symptoms worse.
- Take breaks during activities. Overdoing it can make arthritis symptoms worse, so take breaks often and pace yourself when engaging in activities.
- Protect your joints. Use supportive devices such as splints or braces when necessary to protect your joints from further damage.
- Watch what you eat. Certain foods exacerbate the effects of arthritis, especially the gouty form of it. Check with your doctors about what foods help maintain joint health and manage uric acid.
How EVA Teleconsult can help with managing arthritis symptoms
EVA Teleconsult has a number of doctors and healthcare professionals who are well-trained and equipped to assist patients in dealing with many different chronic conditions, including arthritis. This is because, with us, patients can always expect:
- Timely appointments – No more time wasted while waiting outside a doctor’s office. With us, appointments begin right when they’re supposed to, even if they’re made the same day.
- Guaranteed 30-minute consultation times – No more rushing or quickly dashed off prescriptions with no explanations. Our doctors take the time needed to give you information about your concerns, and are open to answering all your questions.
- 5-star ratings for our doctors – Because our doctors know how to explain things in a way patients can understand, we frequently get positive feedback from them.
Get the treatment that you or your loved one need, and book a consultation today.
