Facts About Arthritis
What is arthritis?
The term arthritis refers to about 120 different diseases that can affect the joints, muscles and other soft tissues. The three most common forms are osteoarthritis, fibromyalgia and rheumatoid arthritis.
Osteoarthritis, also known as degenerative joint disease, is the most common type of arthritis, affecting an estimated 21 million adults in this country. Commonly referred to as a “wear and tear” arthritis, osteoarthritis involves destruction of the cartilage, the cushion or shock absorber on the ends of the bones.
Fibromyalgia is a disease that causes pain and stiffness in the tissues that support and move the bones and joints. It is a common disease that affects approximately 2% of the U.S. population or about 5 million individuals. Widespread pain and localized tender points occur in the muscles and tendons especially those of the neck, spine, shoulders and hips. Other common symptoms include significant fatigue, difficulty concentrating and sleep disturbance.
Rheumatoid arthritis is a disease that mainly affects the lining of the joint. An important feature of this inflammatory illness is that the body’s own immune system targets its own tissue as an enemy. Joint swelling over a long period of time can lead to deformity and loss of function in the joint. Because rheumatoid arthritis affects the entire body, many individuals also experience fatigue, fever and a general sense of feeling unwell. Rheumatoid arthritis affects over 2 million U.S. citizens.
Other types of arthritis include gout, systemic lupus erythematosus, juvenile arthritis, scleroderma, infectious arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, psoriatic arthritis, bursitis, tendinitis and carpal tunnel syndrome.
How Common is Arthritis?
Arthritis can affect individuals of all ages, including children.
What are the symptoms?
Symptoms of arthritis can include pain, swelling and stiffness in joints or the inability to move a joint normally. In some types of arthritis, like rheumatoid arthritis, joints can become red, warm, swollen and painful, and the person can feel “sick all over.” Other symptoms are unexplained fever, fatigue, weight loss and swollen lymph glands. Symptoms typically last more than two weeks.
Who is at risk?
Non-modifiable risk factors are those that cannot be prevented or changed. They are:
- Men and women 45 years of age and older
- Females 15 years of age and older
- Someone with a family history of arthritis
- Being African-American
Modifiable risk factors are those that can be prevented or changed by an individual. These include -
- Obesity
- Past injuries to joints
- Infections, like Lyme disease
- Certain occupations that require frequent repetitive joint activities, for example, kneeling or stooping
How is arthritis diagnosed?
A diagnosis of arthritis is based on the pattern of symptoms, medical history, family history, physical examination, X-rays and lab tests.
How is arthritis treated?
Appropriate management can help individuals with arthritis live healthy and independent lives. A rheumatologist (an arthritis specialist) can be very helpful in evaluating and treating types of arthritis that require specialized drug therapy. An important aspect of successfully dealing with arthritis pain and disability is self-management. It is important for patients to learn about their disease and to take part in their own care. Working with healthcare specialists allows a person to share in decision making and gain a sense of control.
The following are important self-management skills:
- Exercise is important for maintaining healthy and strong muscles, for preserving joint mobility and for maintaining flexibility. Exercise also can help individuals to sleep better, to maintain a positive attitude and to lose weight. It can reduce pain, too. Before beginning any exercise routine, ask your physician to help you create a program that meets your specific arthritis needs.
- Rest also is important. Arthritis can cause tiredness and muscle weakness. A rest or short nap that doesn’t interfere with nighttime sleep can be useful in controlling pain. Some individuals find stress reduction and biofeedback helpful.
- Assistive devices can be used to reduce stress on certain joints. For example, braces or canes can help reduce stress on the knees. Jar grippers or similar gadgets can help reduce stress on the small joints. Research shows that patients who take part in their own care report less pain, make fewer visits to their physician and enjoy a better quality of life.
When should you get help?
Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment are very important in managing arthritis. Physicians now believe that damage to bones begins within the first two years that a person has the disease. Early diagnosis can decrease symptoms and long-term complications. A person should see a healthcare professional if symptoms of pain or swelling in multiple joints on both sides of the body develop.
More information about arthritis can be obtained by contacting:
National Women’s Health Information Center
800-994-9662
National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases
301-496-4484
National Institute on Aging
800-222-2225