A condition in which inflammation occurs in one or more joints is known as arthritis. The most common types of arthritis are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.
Osteoarthritis causes cartilage, which is the hard, slippery tissue that covers the ends of bones where a joint is formed, to break down. While rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disorder which first targets lining of the joints.
The treatment of arthritis largely depends on the type of arthritis. The treatment aims at reducing the symptoms of the condition and improving the quality of life.
So, What are the Symptoms of Arthritis?
Some of the most common signs and symptoms of arthritis involve the joints. Depending on the type of arthritis, the signs and symptoms include:
- Pain
- Stiffness
- Swelling
- Redness
- Decreased range of motion
What are the Risk Factors of Arthritis?
The factors that can put you at a risk of arthritis can include:
Family history: There are some kinds of arthritis which run in the families. Thus, it puts you at a risk of suffering from the condition. Genes make you more vulnerable to the condition more than the environmental factors.
Age: As you age, the risk of arthritis, including osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis and gout, increases.
Gender: Women are at a higher risk than men of suffering from rheumatoid arthritis.
Previous joint history: If you injured a joint while playing a sport, you are most likely to develop arthritis in that joint.
Obesity: If you have some extra pounds on your body, it stresses the joints, especially the knees, hips and spine. Obese people are at a higher risk of suffering from arthritis.
Read more articles on Arthritis Signs and Syptoms.