Arthritis Symptoms

Early Diagnosis and Appropriate Treatment
of your arthritis symptoms will reduce the pain

The main symptoms of arthritis are pain, swelling and stiffness in joints, muscles and bones. The earlier the condition is diagnosed and treatment is started, the better.
 
Arthritis can develop at any age. There are cases of juvenile arthritis but it is more common in people over the age of forty. By the nature of the disease, the arthritis symptoms become more apparent and the pain gets more severe later in life. Most people suffer with arthritis in some of their joints well before the age of seventy. The degree of pain and stiffness varies among individuals, ranging from some slight inconvenience to life-changing pain and disability.

In the USA, "In 2007–2009, 50% of adults 65 years or older reported an arthritis diagnosis." Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

Women suffer more than men from osteoarthritis. This may be linked to the fact that, on average, they live longer and the symptoms are present for more years.  

There are many kinds of arthritis, the most common being osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.

In Osteoarthritis, the cartilage between the bones is worn away over time and the bones rub together, causing pain and stiffness. This condition is known as "degenerative wear and tear" and usually occurs in later life, as a result of the millions of times a joint will move and flex, over a period of years.This degenerative condition can be worsened and aggravated by a lifestyle of heavy manual work or by violent and sustained sporting activity. Approximately eight or nine million people in the UK suffer from osteoarthritis and more than twenty million in the USA. The severity of the symptoms can vary from mild inconvenience to severe disability.

Rheumatoid arthritis is a disease that affects the immune system, which attacks the joints and causes inflammation. There are about 350,000 sufferers in the UK. 

Ankylosing spondilitis is arthritis and  inflammation affecting the spine.

Fibromyalgia causes pain in  muscles and ligaments all over the body.

Gout is a result of a build up of acid crystals, causing extreme, sudden pain, usually in the big toe. Diet can be a big influence on the incidence and severity of gout.

Arthritis symptoms usually start with pain and stiffness in one or more joints. Fingers, hips and knees are most commonly affected but the pain can spread to any joint in the body. Difficulty in finding a comfortable position in bed can cause spasms of pain and disrupted sleep.

Symptoms are usually more noticeable first thing in the morning. Stiffness and possibly swelling will restrict movement at first but will usually abate as the day goes on.In addition to pain and stiffness, joints may become swollen and warm, with some lumps and disfigurement of the area. This is more common with rheumatoid arthritis and noticeably affects the hands and fingers.  

Crepitus is a symptom that should be taken very seriously. Crepitus is a crackling or popping sound that occurs as a result of tissues rubbing together abnormally and may be a sign that osteoarthritis has reached an advanced stage and damaged bones are not cushioned in the joint. It is particularly common in the neck, in the form of spondylosis and causes pain and stiffness when turning the head. It is especially tiresome and dangerous when driving a car. Extra care and dependence on mirrors is essential.

Recognition of all these symptoms at an early stage can make a huge difference to the development of the disease if appropriate action is taken promptly. Adopting a healthy, helpful diet can have a big influence on pain relief, not to mention the benefits in general health and well-being. Safe, regular exercise is essential, to prevent joints seizing up. Strengthening the muscles gives much needed support to weak joints and the advice of a qualified physiotherapist will ensure that the exercises are safe and effective.

Don't Despair!  We know there is currently no cure for arthritis (despite what many people may tell you) but there is much that you can do to reduce and manage the pain and disability. There are many different ways to tackle the many problems and in many cases a few simple solutions can make a huge difference.  For a comprehensive solution, encompassing diet, exercise, simple lifestyle changes and many little-known secrets, Explore this whole website

Arthritis Robs You Of Your Dignity And Your Independence