Arthritis is a disease that can affect the quality of life and health of the patient. In the article we will present the causes and symptoms of arthritis, as well as the types of diseases associated with this condition. In addition, we will discuss effective treatments that help fight the disease, including edema. Knowledge of arthritis is important because it allows early diagnosis and effective treatment, which avoids more serious complications and improves the patient’s quality of life.
What is arthritis?
Arthritis, also called arthritis, is a medical condition that is characterized by inflammation of one or more joints in the body. This disease can have various causes, such as autoimmune diseases, infectious diseases or mechanical damage to the joints.
What can cause arthritis – causes
Arthritis can occur due to abnormalities in the immune system, in which the body can confuse its own tissues with foreign ones and attack them with antibodies. Another cause may be a viral or bacterial infection, as well as severe stress. Some people have a genetic predisposition to arthritis that they inherit from their ancestors. In addition, mechanical injuries or improperly treated injuries can also contribute to arthritis.
Arthritis – symptoms
Symptoms of arthritis include pain, swelling, redness and stiffness in the joints, which can lead to limited joint mobility and difficulty performing daily activities. In more severe cases, arthritis can lead to permanent joint damage and severe mobility limitations.
Arthritis – treatment
Treatment for arthritis depends on the cause of the disease and includes many different therapies. The goal of treatment is to alleviate symptoms, improve the patient’s quality of life and maintain the functionality of the joints. The most commonly used methods of treatment are anti-inflammatory drugs, physiotherapy, exercise and diet. In some cases, such as severe autoimmune diseases, treatment may include immunosuppressive or biological drugs.
Pharmacological treatment of arthritis
People suffering from arthritis are often given two types of medication: anti-inflammatory and analgesic drugs, and disease-modifying drugs. The first group of drugs is aimed at relieving pain and reducing inflammation in the joints. The second group of drugs delays the processes of joint destruction. In disease-modifying drugs, non-biological and biological pharmaceuticals are distinguished. Biological drugs are considered the most effective in protecting joints from new damage.
Non-pharmacological treatment
Physical activity tailored to the individual capabilities of the patient
People experiencing joint pain often avoid all physical activity, which is a mistake. Moderate movement is beneficial because it keeps the joints mobile and strengthens the muscles around them. The scope of exercises is best determined with an experienced rehabilitation specialist.
Physiotherapeutic treatments
Physiotherapists effectively deal with the pain associated with arthritis. They recommend simple exercises for a given joint and a variety of treatments, such as hydrotherapy, cryotherapy or laser therapy.
Use of gloves and wristbands for patients with arthritis
Specially designed bands bring effective pain relief. The bands are available in knee and ankle versions. How do they work? Compression bands provide support and stability to the joint and reduce its swelling. The products are additionally made of special ceramic yarn, which retains and reflects body heat, relieving pain. Importantly, the bands do not contain latex, which can cause allergies. In case of inflammation of the wrists, gloves are recommended that relieve pain and increase the mobility of the fingers and hands. They provide even heat and pressure retention and comfort thanks to external seams.
Ointments, gels and patches
Temporary relief in joint pain can also be brought by preparations available without a prescription in pharmacies.
Proper diet
Many arthritis patients underestimate the impact of a healthy diet and supplementation. Sick joints need collagen, so it is worth enriching the daily diet with gelatin. In order to calm inflammation, it is recommended to eat fatty marine fish containing omega-3 acids, vegetables, fruits, nuts and seeds.
With joint problems, highly processed foods such as sweets, chips, snacks, junk food and instant dishes should be avoided. Preservatives, artificial colors and flavors can aggravate inflammation, which increases the patient’s perception of pain.
What are the types of arthritis?
In total, there are about 100 different types of arthritis, but the most common are:
- Osteoarthritis
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Gout (gout, arthritis, gout)
- Juvenile rheumatoid arthritis
- Lupus erythematosus
- Spondyloarthritis
- Septic arthritis
- Inflammation caused by infection
Is arthritis dangerous?
Yes, arthritis can be dangerous to your health and quality of life, especially if not treated properly. Symptoms of arthritis, such as pain, stiffness and difficulty moving, can lead to disability and limitation of physical activity. In some cases, when arthritis is the result of an autoimmune disease, damage to other organs and tissues in the body may also occur. Therefore, it is important to diagnose and treat arthritis quickly to reduce the risk of complications and improve the patient’s quality of life.
