Arthritis: Causes, Symptoms, and Diagnosis

Arthritis is one of the most common health problems in the U.S. According to an estimate, over 50 million adults  and 300,000 children in the U.S. are reported to have doctor-diagnosed arthritis.

Arthritis has more than 100 known forms which may affect both men and women at any age. The condition may arise as a result of certain injuries or disorders which may cause chronic inflammation in the joints in knees, elbows, wrists, shoulders and ankles. The chronic inflammation and pain may limit the functions of joints leading to immobility and even complete disability, in more severe cases.

While arthritis may be inevitable in some cases, it’s a good idea to take appropriate preventive measures so as to reduce the risk of the condition. Find out everything you need to know about the condition so that you can discuss and make a precautionary plan with your physician.

What are the Causes of Arthritis?

The causes of arthritis may depend on the type of the condition. The most common types of arthritis may arise due to the following reasons.

·         Autoimmune disorder

·         Wear and tear of cartilage that cushions the joints

·         Metabolic abnormalities

·         Hereditary factors

·         Direct and indirect effects of bacterial or viral infections

What are the Signs and Symptoms of the Condition?

The initial symptoms of the condition may depend on the cause of the condition. However, some common signs may include:

·         Joint pain in the knees, hands, and feet

·         Swollen joints

·         Tenderness in and around joint area

·         Joint stiffness

·         Joint redness

·         Joint warmth

·         Loss of joint function

·         Joint deformity

Some patient may also have additional symptoms including;

·         Fever

·         Fatigue

·         Weight loss

·         Anemia

The symptoms may appear periodically and affect multiple joints in a symmetrical pattern. Depending upon the type of the condition, these symptoms may get worse over time causing permanent damage and deformity of joints.

How the Condition is Diagnosed

If you have persistent joint pain and inflammation, you should immediately visit a rheumatologist for a physical exam. The practitioner may examine your complete medical history as well as suggest blood, and radiology test.

Timely X-ray and blood test may help your physician verify the condition to develop a treatment plan considering your specific therapeutic needs.

How Arthritis Can Be Treated

Arthritis is incurable. However, the symptoms of the condition can be controlled through a combination of exercise, patient education, changes in dietary habits, medications, and surgery.

Regular exercise may particularly help in reducing soreness and pain in affected area besides inhibiting elements that may potentially develop complications over time.

Early diagnosis of arthritis can significantly improve your chances of preventing symptoms limiting mobility. Schedule a blood test and radiology exam with a reliable diagnostic laboratory in NYC. LabFinder provides you a convenient way to find the most suitable lab near you to get your tests done in a quicker manner. Sign up to search for the lab now.