Arthritis: Causes, Diagnosis & Treatment

There are many different types of arthritis and each one has a different cause. There is also pain associated with each type, but the pattern and severity of pain varies depending on the location of the disease. Even though there are many varieties and symptoms of arthritis, they are all linked together because they all affect the joints.

Treatment options depend on the type of arthritis and the severity of the disease. Some of the treatment options available are physical therapy, exercise, dietary changes, medication, or surgery.

The three most common types of arthritis are Rheumatoid Arthritis, Gout, and Osteoarthritis.

Rheumatoid Arthritis
Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic autoimmune disorder that occurs when the tissue is being overtaken by the immune system and then swelling is noticed in the joints of the wrists and fingers. Researchers who are studying arthritis have found that this type generally occurs in women from the age of 25 to 55. It's important to know that getting treatment when symptoms are first detected will prevent more damage to the joints. Diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis is done by blood tests to analyze the rheumatoid factor in your blood and with x-rays. Treatment will vary from one person to the next, depending on what stage the disease is at. Drugs such as Aralen or Rheumatrex, which are anti-rheumatic and help modify your immune system, are commonly used to treat this type of arthritis.

Gout
Gout is caused by monosodium urate crystals building up in the joints and tissues. This form of arthritis is more prevalent in men as they approach their mid 40's, but women can get it too. Gout presents itself as painful swollen joints that become purple and hot. Some people may experience chills and a fever. To properly diagnose gout, your doctor will need to get a sample of the synovial fluid from the swollen joint. The fluid sample is then examined under a microscope to look for the presence of needle shaped urate crystals. A low dose aspirin, certain diuretics, and diet changes can help reduce the risks of gout. Drugs such as Colchicine, Allopurinol and Probenecid are the three main types used to treat this disease.

Osteoarthritis

Years of wear and tear to the cartilage that cushions our joints causes Osteoarthritis. As the cartilage in our joints starts to wear away, the surface of our bones are less cushioned. So weight bearing activities such as walking or standing will cause pain. Diagnosis of osteoarthritis involves x-rays, MRI, and removing fluid for examination under a microscope. Non-drug treatments to relieve the pain of osteoarthritis are getting plenty of rest, exercise, weight loss, knee braces, canes, and walkers. Over the counter drugs such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen are commonly used to ease the pain of this type of arthritis. In more severe or advanced cases, drugs such as Tramadol or Hydrocodone may be needed.

Sources:
webmd.com
Wikipedia