Arthritis (Osteoarthritis, Rheumatoid Arthritis)

What is Arthritis (Osteoarthritis, Rheumatoid Arthritis)?

• Osteoarthritis (OA): This type of arthritis primarily affects the cartilage, the protective tissue that covers the ends of bones in a joint. OA occurs when the cartilage breaks down, leading to pain, stiffness, and swelling in the affected joints, commonly the knees, hips, hands, and spine.
• Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA): RA is an autoimmune disease where the body's immune system mistakenly attacks the synovium, the lining of the membranes that surround the joints. This results in inflammation that can damage joints and other organs, causing pain, swelling, and deformity, typically affecting joints symmetrically.

Side Effects of Arthritis (Osteoarthritis, Rheumatoid Arthritis)

• Both OA and RA can cause significant discomfort and mobility issues. Common symptoms include pain, stiffness, reduced range of motion, swelling around the joints, and in severe cases, deformity of the affected joints.

How is Arthritis (Osteoarthritis, Rheumatoid Arthritis) Diagnosed?

• Medical History and Physical Examination: Your doctor will inquire about your symptoms, medical history, and perform a physical exam to assess joint function and swelling.
• Imaging Tests: X-rays, MRI scans, or ultrasound may be used to visualize the affected joints and detect changes such as cartilage loss (OA) or inflammation (RA).
• Blood Tests: In the case of RA, blood tests can help identify specific antibodies like rheumatoid factor (RF) or anti-cyclic citrullinated peptide (anti-CCP) antibodies, which are often elevated in people with RA.

Potential Treatment of Arthritis (Osteoarthritis, Rheumatoid Arthritis)

Treatment plans for arthritis aim to relieve symptoms, improve joint function, and slow down the progression of the disease. Here are common approaches:

• Medications: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), analgesics, corticosteroids, disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs), and biologic agents are prescribed depending on the type and severity of arthritis.
  
• Physical Therapy: Exercises and physical therapy techniques help improve joint flexibility, strengthen muscles around the joints, and reduce pain.
  
• Lifestyle Modifications: Weight management, joint protection techniques, and assistive devices (like braces or canes) can alleviate symptoms and improve quality of life.
  
• Surgery: In severe cases of OA, joint replacement surgery (such as knee or hip replacement) may be considered to relieve pain and restore function.
  

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