Learn more about the basics of arthritis, from arthritis 101 to common symptoms and diagnostic methods below:
What Is Arthritis?
Arthritis is very common but is not well understood. Actually, “arthritis” is not a single disease; it is an informal way of referring to joint pain or joint disease. There are more than 100 different types of arthritis and related conditions. People of all ages, sexes and races can and do have arthritis, and it is the leading cause of disability in America. More than 50 million adults and 300,000 children have some type of arthritis. It is most common among women and occurs more frequently as people get older.
Do I Have Arthritis?
So you want to know if you have arthritis? If you are having joint symptoms, it’s a good question, and we’re glad you asked.
The Arthritis Foundation is great place to come for information and guidance from advice from experts you can trust, but in the end the question – “Do I have arthritis?” – can only be answered your doctor. Still, we can help. Read on.
How to Prevent Arthritis
The fact is, there is no sure way to prevent arthritis. But you can help to prevent, that is, reduce your risk, and delay the potential onset of certain types of arthritis. If you have healthy joints right now, do all you can now to maintain mobility and function and avoid the pain and disability associated with arthritis.
It happens every day, all over the country. People with joint problems make appointments with their doctors, wanting a quick answer. They want to know what’s wrong and how it can be fixed. The signs and symptoms that lead people to the exam room are typically joint pain, swelling or stiffness. Sometimes unexplained fatigue and a lingering sense of illness are problems, too.
Get to know arthritis by the numbers. You’ll be surprised. Arthritis is all around us, yet its impact on people, employers and the country is far greater, more serious and costly than most people realize.
When to Make an Appointment With Your Doctor
Joint symptoms may signal a serious type of arthritis that can cause permanent joint damage if treatment is delayed. Know what to watch for so you can take action.
If you are having joint symptoms that cause concern, there are good reasons to see a doctor for an evaluation and diagnosis.
Arthritis Treatment: Early Is Best
Receiving rheumatoid arthritis treatment sooner rather than later may be your key to remission.
A hot topic among rheumatologists lately is whether when you treat rheumatoid arthritis (RA) matters as much as how you treat it. Some believe strongly in early arthritis treatment, prescribing an aggressive regimen of RA drugs during what is called "the window of opportunity." Doing so, they maintain, just may stop the disease in its tracks.
Inflammation and Stiffness: The Hallmarks of Arthritis
As a disease, arthritis is more complicated and varied than most people imagine. It can come in different forms and affect people in different ways. But the common thread through most forms of arthritis? Inflammation and stiffness of the joints.
Arthritis Self Management: What You Need to Know
If you’ve been diagnosed with arthritis, you’ll probably have several healthcare professionals involved in your care. But the most important part of your healthcare team is you. Simply put, self-management of arthritis is what you do to manage your disease.
Self-management is about making positive and healthy lifestyle choices, and acknowledging and addressing the physical and emotional effects of arthritis. Having arthritis affects everyone differently, so it’s up to you to learn and practice what helps you to live well and thrive.