Arthritis: Four main warning signs of the condition - 'keep track of your symptoms'

From express.co.uk

ARTHRITIS is a common condition that causes pain and inflammation in a joint. In the UK, more than 10 million people have arthritis or other similar joint conditions, though signs and symptoms can vary.

Unfortunately arthritis can be very painful for some people with the condition, and may impact people of all ages. The NHS explains that living with arthritis can sometimes mean carrying out everyday tasks that can often be painful and difficult. Nonetheless, there are a number of factors that can ease pain. Treatment for rheumatoid arthritis aims to slow the condition's progress and minimise joint inflammation.

There are “four important warning signs that should prompt you to talk to a healthcare provider", according to the Arthritis Foundation. It says you should keep track of your symptoms. 

The first is a pain which can be constant or it may come and go.“ It may occur when at rest or while moving. Pain may be in one part of the body or in many different parts,” the advice reads. 

Another “classic arthritis symptom” is stiffness, especially when waking up in the morning or after sitting at a desk or riding in a car for a long time.

The Arthritis Foundation states: “Morning stiffness that lasts longer than an hour is good reason to suspect arthritis.

”Two other key signs are swelling and difficulty moving a joint. Some types of arthritis cause the skin over the affected joint to become red and swollen and may start feeling warm to the touch.

If swelling that lasts for three days or longer or occurs more than three times a month you should speak with your doctor. If the doctor suspects arthritis they will perform a range of tests to check the range of motion in your joints.

The symptoms of arthritis you experience will vary depending on the type you have.

In the UK, more than 10 million people have arthritis or other similar joint conditions. (Image: Getty)

Osteoarthritis is the most common type of arthritis in the UK, affecting around eight million people, while rheumatoid arthritis affects more than 400,000 people.

Rheumatoid arthritis often starts when a person is between 40 and 50 years old, and women are three times more likely to be affected than men.

“If you have pain in or around a joint or joints that doesn’t go away after a few days, you should see a doctor.“

Finding out what’s causing your pain is key to finding the right treatment and self-help options,” says Versus Arthritis charity.

As well as causing pain and stiffness, inflammation can cause permanent damage to a joint, so starting effective treatment early on can help to minimise damage.

“It’s important to see a doctor if you get any new symptoms or if you have any trouble with drugs you’re taking,” the charity adds.

There are some lifestyle habits and changes that might help manage symptoms. 

These include eating a healthy diet and managing your weight. If you are overweight it can increase complications of arthritis and contribute to joint pain.

“It's very important to eat a healthy, balanced diet if you have arthritis. Eating healthily will give you all the nutrients you need and help you maintain a healthy weight,” says the NHS.

You should also try to quit smoking. “Smoking causes stress on connective tissues, which can increase arthritis pain,” says the Mayo Clinic.

https://www.express.co.uk/life-style/health/1507489/arthritis-symptoms-pain-stiffness-swelling-treatment