It typically gets worse with age. There are many types of Arthritis but the most common ones are rheumatoid and osteoarthritis. Arthritis causes chronic pain and stiffness that leads to fatigue, depression, anxiety, and decreased mobility, affecting daily activities, work, relationships, and mental well-being.
Osteoarthritis typically affects older adults due to wear and tear on the joints over time whereas rheumatoid arthritis often develops between ages 30 and 60 and is an autoimmune disorder where the immune system attacks the body's own tissues. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 54 million adults are affected because of arthritis. Arthritis risk increases with age and other factors like family history apart from the gender role as women are more likely to develop most types of arthritis.
Among adults who are above the age of 65 years and above, around 25.7 million have arthritis, while adults aged 18 to 44 years account for 6.2 million cases. In the USA, West Virginia, Alabama, and Arkansas hold the highest share of adults with Arthritis.
Treatments and Medications for Arthritis:
Arthritis Medications and treatments vary depending on the type and severity of the condition. Common medications include non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to reduce pain and inflammation, analgesics for pain relief, and disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) to slow the progression of rheumatoid arthritis. Even though medications and treatments can provide relief, they also come with potential drawbacks such as gastrointestinal issues, increased risk of cardiovascular events while some treatments only provide temporary relief or require ongoing use to maintain effectiveness. Lifestyle modifications such as exercise, weight management, physical therapy, and occupational therapy are also crucial components of arthritis management.
In addition to conventional treatments, people with arthritis explore acupuncture, massage therapy, dietary supplements (such as glucosamine and chondroitin), and mind-body practices like yoga and tai chi.
Reducing risk factors of Arthritis:
One of the major reasons to reduce the risk factors for Arthritis and promote healing often involves adapting a healthy lifestyle. This includes maintaining a balanced diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods, engaging in regular exercise to strengthen muscles and joints, managing stress levels, avoiding smoking, and maintaining a healthy weight to reduce strain on the joints. Early diagnosis and prompt treatment can help prevent further joint damage and improve outcomes for individuals with arthritis.
In conclusion to summarize, Arthritis is a common and draining condition characterized by joint inflammation, affecting millions of people in the United States and worldwide. While various medications and treatments can provide relief, they also come with potential risks and limitations. Understanding the causes, symptoms, and management strategies for arthritis is crucial for individuals diagnosed with the condition. By adopting a holistic approach to care, including medication, lifestyle modifications, and preventive measures, individuals can effectively manage their arthritis and improve their overall quality of life.
