|
What are the causes and risks of arthritis?
OSTEOARTHRITIS
- Degenerative joint disease which is most often the result of aging.
- It can also develop because of injury such as bones broken, intense physical activity as in athletics or a defect in the protein comprising the cartilage.
- Osteoarthritis appears to have a genetic link; if both your parents have it, it could be that you will develop it, too.
RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS
- Rheumatoid arthritis is caused by an autoimmune disorder.
- Or it may be caused by a viral infection that sets off the immune response in which the synovial membrane falls under attack.
- There is some conjecture that physical and/or emotional stress may bring on the disorder.
- Poor nutrition may also contribute to the onset of rheumatoid arthritis.
INFECTIOUS ARTHRITIS
- Infectious arthritis is when a virus or bacteria travels to the joint and attacks it.
- It is much less common than the other two types of arthritis discussed above.
- Infectious arthritis can be overlooked in treatment of the injury or illness that caused it. If left untreated, infectious arthritis can cause permanent damage.
What are the symptoms of arthritis?
OSTEOARTHRITIS
- Stiffness, deformity and pain. No swelling of the joints at first, though inflammation may occur later on. Joints may enlarge as well. A popping and clicking noise accompanies a grating feel as joints become less mobile.
RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS
- Swelling, inflammation and stiffness, especially in the morning, in specific joints on both sides of the body. Joints enlarge.
- In juvenile rheumatoid arthritis, fever off and on, anemia, loss of appetite and weight are indicators.
INFECTIOUS ARTHRITIS
- Fever, chills, body aches, pneumonia, confusion, dizziness, low blood pressure, shock, swelling, redness, pain and tenderness in joints.
|
