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Arthritis

There are over 100 different types of arthritis that affect 60 million people in the United States each year. In general, arthritis is a condition that affects the areas in and around the joints, causing pain, inflammation, and other damage. It is estimated that one in three Americans suffer from some form of arthritis. While people of any age can develop arthritis, it is more commonly found in people as they age. Women are also much more likely to get arthritis than men.

While there are over 100 forms of arthritis, some are more common than others. Osteoarthritis, the most common type of arthritis, is a degenerative joint disease, which causes the cartilage cushioning between bones to deteriorate leading to bone-to-bone rubbing. Rheumatoid arthritis, a common condition affecting women more than men, is an auto-immune disease characterized by inflammation of the joint lining which can cause joint deformity and other damage. This is one of the most serious and disabling types of arthritis. Gout, ankylosing spondylitis, juvenile arthritis, lupus, scleroderma, and fibromyaglia are just some other types of arthritis that a person can develop.

Inflammation of the joints can be caused by a broken bone, a bacterial or viral infection, auto-immune disease, or general wear-and-tear on the body. This inflammation may lead to acute (short-term) or chronic (long term) arthritis. The exact cause of arthritis, however, is often unknown. A previous injury, repetitive stress, being overweight, and some genetic factors may increase a person's risk of developing arthritis.

Symptoms of arthritis are specific to the type of arthritis that a person develops. Persistent pain and tenderness in the joints that is aggravated by movement and activity is a common symptom of arthritis. Signs of inflammation, such as swelling, stiffness, redness, and warmth, are also common symptoms of arthritis. Decreased range of motion and flexibility are also common characteristics of arthritis. Unexplained fever, weight loss, fatigue, and other symptoms can also occur in patients with arthritis.

A diagnosis of arthritis is made after other conditions are ruled out. A doctor will perform a thorough physical examination and meticulously evaluate the person's medical history. S/he may also conduct lab tests and take x-rays to determine the type of arthritis can the severity of the condition.

Arthritis treatment is based on the underlying cause, the affected area, the severity, and the affect on daily life. One's age, lifestyle, and occupation may also be taken into account. The goal of arthritis treatment is to eliminate the underlying cause if possible, and reduce the pain and discomfort associated with the condition. It is possible to drastically improve your arthritis without taking medication. Appropriate exercise, physical therapy, rest, a healthy diet, and supplements like glucosamine and chondroitin can all improve a patient's arthritis. Surgery may be an option for some people with arthritis, though this option is not often explored until other treatment methods have been used.

There are a number of medications that can be used to treat arthritis. Traditional non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like naproxen and ibuprofen, and dozens of others have been used by arthritis patients for decades. These drugs are associated with gastrointestinal side effects. Newer, COX-2 selective NSAIDs are also used to treat arthritis, though two of the three medications, Bextra and Vioxx, have been pulled from the market due to unacceptable side effect risks. Celebrex is the only one that remains, though it causes virtually the same side effects as the recalled drugs.

In addition to NSAIDs, there are dozens of other medications. DMARDs, or disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs, may improve a patient's condition. Corticosteroids can provide quick relief from swelling and inflammation. Pain killers and analgesics can greatly relieve the pain and discomfort associated with arthritis. BRMs, or biological response modifiers, can stimulate and restore the immune system to fight disease and infection.

It is important to remember that most of these drugs are not recommended for patients with certain medical conditions and those who are taking other specific medications. Each of these drugs is associated with adverse side effects, some much more serious than others. If you or a loved one has arthritis, it is recommended that you speak to your doctor about your full medical history and current use of medications. It is also helpful to learn about the potential side effects caused by the medications you have been prescribed. Should you experience any unexplained symptoms that develop after beginning a new medication, you may wish to mention these symptoms to your doctor or seek medical attention.

Some drugs can actually cause arthritis. For example, drug-induced lupus can be caused by medications used to treat heart disease, thyroid disease, high blood pressure, neuropsychiatric, and more. Anti-inflammatory drugs and some antibiotics may also cause this type of arthritis. As stated, you should speak with your doctor about your full medical history and use of medications.

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