Types of arth­ritis and what’s behind each

From pressreader.com

By The Shopper

Arth­ritis affects people all over the world. Approx­im­ately 53.2 mil­lion adults in the United States have doc­tor-dia­gnosed arth­ritis, says the Cen­ters for Dis­ease Con­trol and Pre­ven­tion. But many more suf­fer in undia­gnosed silence. Glob­ally, nearly 300 mil­lion people may live with arth­ritis.

Arth­ritis can range from mild to debil­it­at­ing and stem from a vari­ety of causes. Under­stand­ing what’s behind arth­ritis can help people get the treat­ment they need. Here are the major types of arth­ritis and their causes.

• Osteoarth­ritis: Osteoarth­ritis is the most com­mon form of arth­ritis, says the Clev­e­land Clinic. It forms as the res­ult of wear-and-tear on car­til­age, which breaks down over time. Aging, repet­it­ive move­ments or pre­vi­ous joint injur­ies can cause osteoarth­ritis.

• Gout: Gout is a meta­bolic con­di­tion caused by the build-up of uric acid crys­tals in the joints. The Mayo Clinic says the build-up occurs when the kid­neys can­not fil­ter the uric acid effect­ively or when the body pro­duces too much. Pain, swell­ing and ten­der­ness can occur in the joints, often in the big toe.

• Autoim­mune: Some forms of arth­ritis are autoim­mune in nature, mean­ing that the immune sys­tem mis­takenly attacks the joints. This occurs with rheum­at­oid arth­ritis and psori­atic arth­ritis, accord­ing to Penn Medi­cine.

• Infec­tion/injury: Some­times viral or bac­terial infec­tions or acute joint injur­ies can trig­ger arth­ritis, says the Clev­e­land Clinic.

Cer­tain risk factors elev­ate the chances of devel­op­ing arth­ritis. Risk elev­ates as joints age and wear down, so older adults are more likely to exper­i­ence arth­ritis. Car­ry­ing extra weight puts pres­sure on joints like the knees, so those who are over­weight are more likely to get arth­ritis. Genet­ics can make a per­son more vul­ner­able to dis­eases like rheum­at­oid arth­ritis, and women are more likely to develop it.

There are vari­ous treat­ments for arth­ritis, and any­one in pain can work with a doc­tor to make life­style changes that can alle­vi­ate symp­toms and help them live fuller lives.

https://www.pressreader.com/usa/the-shopper/20260509/281560887412522

Common signs of arthritis in over 60s and when to seek help

From independent.co.uk

Worsening levels of pain may indicate a more serious issue 

Arthritis is a widespread condition in the UK, especially among those aged 60 and over.

While some level of discomfort can be a natural part of ageing, ongoing or worsening symptoms may indicate a more serious issue that shouldn’t be ignored.

To learn more, Justine Musiime, a chartered physiotherapist with a special interest in rehabilitation for older adults, revealed three of the most common types of arthritis in later life.

She also shared some key insights about when to seek professional advice for symptoms and why early intervention is so important.

Osteoarthritis

The most common type of arthritis in older people is osteoarthritis.

“Osteoarthritis is mainly the degeneration or wear and tear of the joint,” explains Musiime. “It mainly affect the knees and the hips, but can also affect other joints in the hands and the spine.”

In osteoarthritis, the protective cartilage on the ends of your bones breaks down and bony growths can develop, according to the NHS website.

It is estimated that around 8.75 million people in the UK have seen a doctor about osteoarthritis, according to Versus Arthritis’ website, and pain and tenderness are common symptoms.

“The pain is usually worse in the morning,” says Musiime. “So, after someone has been asleep, when they wake up they often feel terrible pain when they try to move. There can also be swelling as well.

“Sometimes people will also hear a crunching noise when they try to move the affected joint.”

However, the severity of osteoarthritis symptoms can vary greatly from person to person, and between different affected joints.

The exact cause is not known, but several things are thought to increase your risk of developing osteoarthritis such as joint injury, age, family history and obesity, according to the NHS website.

Osteoarthritis is also more common in women than men.

                                                     I think if people are displaying symptoms, they should seek help as soon as possible (Alamy/PA)

Rheumatoid arthritis

“Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease where the body’s immune system starts attacking the joints by mistake, causing inflammation,” explains Musiime.

Symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis can include swollen and tender joints, swelling and stiffness in joints in the morning that lasts for longer than half an hour, severe tiredness and a general feeling of being unwell, according to Versus Arthritis.

Over time this inflammation can damage the joints, cartilage and nearby bone.

According to the NHS website, the condition usually affects the hands, feet and wrists and there may be periods where symptoms become worse, known as flare-ups or flares.

The NHS website also states that a flare can be difficult to predict, but with treatment it’s possible to decrease the number of flares and minimise or prevent long-term damage to the joints.

While rheumatoid arthritis can affect adults of any age, it’s most commonly starts among people between the ages of 40 and 60, according to Versus Arthritis.

Gout

“Gout is caused by an accumulation of uric acid in the body,” explains Musiime. This can lead to crystals forming around your joints, which causes pain, according to the NHS website.

“This mainly affects the big toe, causing it to be swollen, painful and sometimes red,” notes Musiime. “Sometimes you might also see skin peeling off.”

Things that can trigger a gout attack include an illness that causes a high temperature, too much alcohol or a very large meal, dehydration, a joint injury or certain medicine, according to the NHS website.

When should people seek help about their symptoms – and why is it important?

“I think if people are displaying symptoms, they should seek help as soon as possible. With the different kinds of arthritis there are different ways of managing the symptoms,” says Musiime. “Arthritis can affect people’s everyday life, even doing basic things like cooking, cleaning and dressing. I have met patients with arthritis who are unable to wash themselves.

“Arthritis isn’t curable, but seeking professional advice can help manage the symptoms and might be able to help slow the progression down too.”

Medication is a common pain management strategy for arthritis.

“I always tell my patients that they need to take the pain medication they have been prescribed because it can help take the edge off the pain,” says Musiime. “It also means that the medication will be in their system for when they start or try to get up and walk.

“Patients with arthritis are often prescribed non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen, but it’s best to talk to your GP to figure out the best medication for you.”

It’s also very important to stay active.

“Swimming is good because being in water means there is less pressure and pain on the joints and walking is also really good,” says Musiime. “But, any exercise that you enjoy engaging in is good, as long as it does not make the pain excruciating to the extent that you are not able to function. Any movement of the joints and strengthening the muscles around those joints is very important.”

https://www.independent.co.uk/health-and-wellbeing/arthritis-symptoms-treatment-doctor-b2866454.html

Gout, ankylosing spondylitis, and psoriatic arthritis look quite different but share more than you think

From koreabiomed.com

Gout, ankylosing spondylitis, and psoriatic arthritis may appear to be distinct diseases, but they share many commonalities.

The most notable of these is that all three are rheumatic diseases caused by abnormalities in the body's immune system, leading to inflammation in the joints and throughout the body.

“There is another important commonality among gout, ankylosing spondylitis, and psoriatic arthritis,” said Professor Lee Joo-ha of the Department of Rheumatology at the Catholic University of Korea’s Seoul St. Mary’s Hospital, speaking on Seoul St. Mary’s Hospital TV. “For rheumatic diseases like psoriatic arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, and gout, early diagnosis and consistent management are paramount. Missing the treatment window can lead to joint damage and various complications, significantly lowering quality of life.”

Gout, ankylosing spondylitis, and psoriatic arthritis may appear to be distinct diseases, but they share many commonalities. The most crucial is that all three are rheumatic diseases caused by abnormalities in the body's immune system, leading to inflammation in the joints and throughout the body. (Credit: Getty Images)

Gout is rapidly increasing, even among young people. It is a disease in which uric acid crystals -- formed by elevated blood uric acid levels -- accumulate in or around joints, causing inflammation. “It is often due to a reduced ability to excrete uric acid through the kidneys,” Professor Lee explained. “It is not diagnosed based solely on high blood uric acid levels.”

During a severe gout flare-up, uric acid levels can actually appear normal. “Particular caution is needed during acute attacks, as levels may remain within the normal range,” Professor Lee said.

Some mistakenly believe treatment ends once a flare-up subsides, but this is not the case. “Consistent medication management of uric acid levels is essential to prevent complications like tophi or bone damage. Taking urate-lowering drugs is the core of treatment, and avoiding alcohol and certain foods also helps,” Professor Lee said. “The benefits of consistent treatment far outweigh concerns about side effects.”

Ankylosing spondylitis causes back pain that worsens at rest and improves with movement—it is not simple back pain. It is a chronic autoimmune disease in which the immune system primarily attacks the spine and pelvic joints, causing inflammation and potentially leading to gradual spinal fusion. It typically begins in young adults, primarily between the ages of 15 and 30.

Professor Lee described the hallmark symptom of ankylosing spondylitis as “inflammatory back pain that worsens with rest and improves with movement,” adding that “morning stiffness is characteristic.” Ankylosing spondylitis can also cause inflammation in other joints, as well as in the eyes, skin, and intestines.

Diagnosis involves confirming characteristic back pain and systemic symptoms, supplemented by imaging and genetic testing such as HLA-B27. Controlling inflammation and alleviating pain through medication can prevent spinal deformity and help maintain a healthy daily life. Consistent stretching and exercise are also crucial.

Psoriatic arthritis affects the skin, hands, and even the toenails. It is a chronic inflammatory disease that causes inflammation and pain in the joints, spine, and tendon attachment sites, along with psoriatic skin and nail symptoms. Diagnosis involves comprehensively assessing both skin and joint symptoms, along with blood tests and imaging studies, to differentiate it from other conditions.

Controlling inflammation and pain with medication can help manage joint damage and psoriasis symptoms. Currently, effective treatments include anti-inflammatory pain relievers, disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs), biologics, and JAK inhibitors.

Gout, ankylosing spondylitis, and psoriatic arthritis share one final commonality.

“Even if the pain seems to subside temporarily, if it recurs -- or if morning stiffness or pain persists -- it may not be ordinary pain,” Professor Lee said. “It is crucial not to dismiss these symptoms lightly and to consult a rheumatologist for an accurate diagnosis.”

https://www.koreabiomed.com/news/articleView.html?idxno=29496 

The 3 common types of arthritis in over 60s, the symptoms and when to seek help

From the-independent.com

Some level of discomfort can be down to ageing, but worsening symptoms may indicate a more serious issue 

Arthritis is a widespread condition in the UK, especially among those aged 60 and over.

While some level of discomfort can be a natural part of ageing, ongoing or worsening symptoms may indicate a more serious issue that shouldn’t be ignored.

To learn more, Justine Musiime, a chartered physiotherapist with a special interest in rehabilitation for older adults, revealed three of the most common types of arthritis in later life.

She also shared some key insights about when to seek professional advice for symptoms and why early intervention is so important.

                                                             Arthritis is common in people aged 60 and over (Alamy/PA)

Osteoarthritis

The most common type of arthritis in older people is osteoarthritis.

“Osteoarthritis is mainly the degeneration or wear and tear of the joint,” explains Musiime. “It mainly affect the knees and the hips, but can also affect other joints in the hands and the spine.”

In osteoarthritis, the protective cartilage on the ends of your bones breaks down and bony growths can develop, according to the NHS website.

It is estimated that around 8.75 million people in the UK have seen a doctor about osteoarthritis, according to Versus Arthritis’ website, and pain and tenderness are common symptoms.

“The pain is usually worse in the morning,” says Musiime. “So, after someone has been asleep, when they wake up they often feel terrible pain when they try to move. There can also be swelling as well.

“Sometimes people will also hear a crunching noise when they try to move the affected joint.”

However, the severity of osteoarthritis symptoms can vary greatly from person to person, and between different affected joints.

The exact cause is not known, but several things are thought to increase your risk of developing osteoarthritis such as joint injury, age, family history and obesity, according to the NHS website.

Osteoarthritis is also more common in women than men.

Rheumatoid arthritis

“Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease where the body’s immune system starts attacking the joints by mistake, causing inflammation,” explains Musiime.

Symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis can include swollen and tender joints, swelling and stiffness in joints in the morning that lasts for longer than half an hour, severe tiredness and a general feeling of being unwell, according to Versus Arthritis.

Over time this inflammation can damage the joints, cartilage and nearby bone.

According to the NHS website, the condition usually affects the hands, feet and wrists and there may be periods where symptoms become worse, known as flare-ups or flares.

The NHS website also states that a flare can be difficult to predict, but with treatment it’s possible to decrease the number of flares and minimise or prevent long-term damage to the joints.

While rheumatoid arthritis can affect adults of any age, it’s most commonly starts among people between the ages of 40 and 60, according to Versus Arthritis.

Gout

“Gout is caused by an accumulation of uric acid in the body,” explains Musiime. This can lead to crystals forming around your joints, which causes pain, according to the NHS website.

“This mainly affects the big toe, causing it to be swollen, painful and sometimes red,” notes Musiime. “Sometimes you might also see skin peeling off.”

Things that can trigger a gout attack include an illness that causes a high temperature, too much alcohol or a very large meal, dehydration, a joint injury or certain medicine, according to the NHS website.

                                               I think if people are displaying symptoms, they should seek help as soon as possible (Alamy/PA)

When should people seek help about their symptoms – and why is it important?

“I think if people are displaying symptoms, they should seek help as soon as possible. With the different kinds of arthritis there are different ways of managing the symptoms,” says Musiime. “Arthritis can affect people’s everyday life, even doing basic things like cooking, cleaning and dressing. I have met patients with arthritis who are unable to wash themselves.

“Arthritis isn’t curable, but seeking professional advice can help manage the symptoms and might be able to help slow the progression down too.”

Medication is a common pain management strategy for arthritis.

“I always tell my patients that they need to take the pain medication they have been prescribed because it can help take the edge off the pain,” says Musiime. “It also means that the medication will be in their system for when they start or try to get up and walk.

“Patients with arthritis are often prescribed non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen, but it’s best to talk to your GP to figure out the best medication for you.”

https://www.the-independent.com/life-style/health-and-families/health-news/arthritis-over-60s-symptoms-treatment-b2798871.html

Gout, a painful form of arthritis, is on the rise. Avoiding red meat and alcohol can help.

From yahoo.com 

Gout sounds like a disease that shouldn’t exist anymore, especially since it’s referred to as the “disease of kings” because of its connection to royal leaders like Henry VIII, who lived with the condition due to overindulging in food and alcohol. However, this ancient condition is on the rise across the globe.

A recent study found a rise in the incidence (the number of new cases) and prevalence (the number of existing cases) of gout from 1990 to 2019. Increases in gout were most significant in the U.S., Canada and Australia for both men and women. Researchers noted that reasons for the increase include obesity, insulin resistance, metabolic syndrome, hypertension and renal diseases.

“Gout is a common type of arthritis that can be extremely painful,” Dr. Tochi Iroku-Malize, board chair of the American Academy of Family Physicians, tells Yahoo Life. “Symptoms include swelling and pain in joints like your feet, ankles, wrists, and elbows.”

What causes gout?

The condition is caused by a build-up of uric acid in the body. Uric acid forms when the body breaks down purines, a chemical compound that cells use to form DNA and RNA. Meat and meat products contain purines.

Uric acid forms crystals around joints in the body, most commonly in the big toe or knee, but can be found in any joint. When this occurs, the affected joint results in severe pain, swelling and redness.

“These crystals do not belong in the joints and when there is something found where it doesn’t belong, especially in tight spaces, the area gets inflamed and painful,” Dr. Eric Ascher, family medicine physician at Northwell Lenox Hill Hospital, tells Yahoo Life. “Even a bedsheet over the area infected could cause someone a large deal of pain and discomfort.”

Who is at risk for having gout?

There are some factors that make people more predisposed to the condition than others. While anyone can get gout — including in very rare cases, children — people between 40 and 60 years old are more likely to have the condition. Gout most often affects middle-aged and older men. In fact, men are three to 10 times more likely to have gout than women.

However, younger men and women of all ages can have gout. In the last 20 years, gout has more than doubled among women, affecting more than 3 million, but the symptoms may be different. Rather than a sudden occurrence in the big toe, gout may affect women slowly over time in several joints like the knees, wrists, fingertips and toes — areas that may already be affected by osteoarthritis, according to the Arthritis Foundation.

“While men develop gout more often than women, women are more likely to develop gout after menopause,” says Iroku-Malize.

This is due to the drop in oestrogen in perimenopause. “Less oestrogen means more uric acid,” Amanda Dewees, a family nurse practitioner at Norton Mobile Primary Care, tells Yahoo Life.

One study published in the journal Arthritis Research & Therapy, found that earlier menopause and a shorter reproductive span were associated with a high risk of gout.

Certain racial and ethnic minority groups are also at higher risk of having gout, including Asians, who are two times more likely to have gout than white people.

“Gout is genetic and can run in families,” says Iroku-Malize.

How is gout treated and prevented?

A doctor can diagnose gout by examining the joints and looking for a pattern of swelling. “We will also look for uric acid crystals either in your joints or through a blood test,” says Iroku-Malize.

Medications that can help treat symptoms of pain and swelling include over-the-counter or prescription varieties. Colchicine can also help manage pain from gout when taken immediately after symptoms occur, and corticosteroids can help with inflammation, swelling and pain. Doctors may also prescribe a medication to treat elevated uric acid.

Practicing certain lifestyle habits can help lower the risk of having gout and prevent future flare-ups. “First, it’s important to limit or avoid foods that are rich in purines as is possible depending on your cultural background, family cuisine or current nutrition needs,” says Iroku-Malize.

Foods to avoid include:

• Red meat, such as beef, lamb, pork and bacon

• Organ meat, such as liver and sweetbreads

• Alcohol, especially red wine and beer

• Shellfish, such as shrimp and scallops

• High-fructose corn syrups, such as those found in sugary beverages

Ascher recommends eating bananas since “high potassium, low purines, will actually help reduce uric acid levels,” he says. Consuming coffee, dairy and eggs in moderation can also lower uric acid levels.

Staying well-hydrated is also helpful. “Lots of water can help flush uric acid from your body,” says Iroku-Malize.

The National Institutes of Health recommends the Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) eating plan, especially for people with high blood pressure and gout because it can help lower blood pressure and urate levels and thus prevent gout flares. The plan includes:

• Lots of vegetables, fruits and whole grains

• Eating low-fat or fat-free dairy products, poultry and oils

• Keeping foods high in saturated fats to a minimum

• Limiting foods and drinks with sugar in them

In addition to changing eating habits, an active lifestyle can reduce stress and pressure on joints and decrease risk of developing gout.

“I highly recommend getting daily exercise, such as a 30-minute walk to reduce flare-ups. Being overweight increases the risk of gout, so maintaining a healthy weight can help lower the risk,” says Dewees.

https://www.yahoo.com/lifestyle/gout-a-painful-form-of-arthritis-is-on-the-rise-avoiding-red-meat-and-alcohol-can-help-191134483.html

Study shows healthy plant-based diets lower gout risk, unhealthy diets raise it

From news-medical.net

A recent study published in JAMA explores the potential benefits of a plant-based diet on gout risk.

How does diet affect gout?

Gout is an inflammatory condition affecting the joints that occurs in about 4% of Americans. This condition is often painful and can be disabling, in addition to increasing the risk of cardiometabolic disease, mortality, and poor mental health.

Certain food products, including alcohol, red meat, fish, and sugary drinks, have been shown to increase the risk of gout. Conversely, skim dairy products, coffee, certain vegetables, and ascorbic acid can reduce the risk of gout.

Healthy diet patterns, such as the Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) and Mediterranean diet, have also been shown to reduce the risk of gout. However, less is known about the effects of plant-based diets on the incidence of gout.

About the study

The current study used data from Americans enrolled in the Health Professionals Follow-Up Study, which was conducted between 1986 and 2012, and the Nurses’ Health Study, which was conducted from 1984 to 2010. All study participants were gout-free at the beginning of the study.

The study aimed to measure mean exposure to an overall plant-based diet index (PDI), healthy PDI (hPDI), and unhealthy PDI (uPDI). These indices were calculated based on 18 food groups determined using a food frequency questionnaire.

What did the study show?

The study included nearly 123,000 participants, with a mean age of 54 and 50.9 for men and women, respectively. Over the period of nearly 2.8 million person-years, new-onset gout was reported in 2,700 individuals.

The overall PDI did not correlate with gout incidence in either men or women. However, when hPDI was compared with uPDI, hPDI had a negative association with gout, whereas uPDI had a positive association.

The risk of gout increased by 17% in the hPDI cohort from the highest to the least quintile, while it was nearly 20% lower from the highest to the least quintile in the uPDI cohort.

The reduction with increased hPDI was even higher among women. When only men were evaluated, there was no significant association.

The risk in the uPDI cohort was especially raised in women, among whom gout risk increased by almost 33% in the uPDI quintile with the highest intake of unhealthy plant-based foods. This risk was not significant among men.

Whole grains reduced the risk of gout by 7% per serving, tea and coffee by 5% per serving, and dairy products by 15% per serving. Conversely, fruit juice and sugary drinks increased the risk of gout by 6%, whereas vegetable oils increased the risk of gout by 16% per serving. The inverse association between whole grains and gout risk was reported in the current study for the first time.

Healthy foods without an associated risk of gout included fruits, vegetables, nuts, and legumes. Unhealthy plant-based foods without increased gout risk included sweets, desserts, potatoes, and refined grains.

Animal fats and fish were associated with an increased risk of gout. However, the consumption of eggs, overall meat, and other animal products was not associated with an increased risk of gout.

Fish is purine-rich, which can increase serum uric acid levels and, as a result, increase an individual’s vulnerability to gout. The reduction of gout risk with sweets and desserts and the lack of an association with refined grains requires further exploration to understand the mechanisms responsible for this association.

Conclusions

The study findings provide additional validity to current dietary guidelines that recommend an increased consumption of healthy plant foods and a lower intake of unhealthy plant-based foods to reduce the risk of gout.

The benefits of including eggs and dairy in a vegetarian diet have been shown to reduce serum uric levels and, as a result, the risk of gout. These dietary patterns are more likely to be followed over the long term as compared to more rigorous or exclusive diets.

The hPDI shares features with the DASH and Mediterranean diets, such as an emphasis on consuming fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, and legumes. This adds to the growing literature of candidate dietary patterns for gout prevention.”

https://www.news-medical.net/news/20240526/Study-shows-healthy-plant-based-diets-lower-gout-risk-unhealthy-diets-raise-it.aspx?utm_source=news_medical_newsletter&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=arthritis_newsletter_5_june_2024 

What To Know and Do About Arthritis Pain

From health.com

Arthritis is a condition that causes pain, inflammation, and limited mobility in your joints. There are several subtypes of arthritis, all of which cause varying levels of discomfort and affect different parts of your body.

In most cases, arthritis pain develops gradually and can worsen as time goes on. Some people may experience pain suddenly. Pain may also worsen at the end of the day or after physical activity.

There's no cure for arthritis, but there are several ways to manage the pain. Many people choose to use medications to reduce inflammation. You can also try home remedies in addition to medical treatments. If you have arthritis or are experiencing joint pain, seek advice from your healthcare provider to receive proper treatment and reduce the risk of complications.

Potential Causes of Arthritis Pain

Arthritis pain can occur for two primary reasons: mechanical breakdown of your joints due to aging and wear-and-tear or inflammation due to an immune system response. Several different conditions can cause joint pain, including the following.

Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a condition that causes a gradual breakdown of the entire joint and its cartilage (cushion) over time. Without the cartilage to provide a cushion, the bones rub together, which can change the shape of your bone. This can result in extreme pain, increased inflammation, and joint stiffness that limits your mobility.

Normal wear and tear of aging or an injury (such as an ACL tear) can cause symptoms of OA to develop.

Most people with OA typically experience pain in the joints of the knees, hips, lower back, hands, and neck. The discomfort tends to increase at night-time or after completing a physical activity, such as household chores or exercise. Other symptoms may include:

• Stiffness in the morning or after prolonged periods of inactivity
• Decreased joint mobility or flexibility
• Clicking sounds when bending the joint
• Joint swelling
• Weak muscles around the affected joint

Not everyone will get OA as they age. While the condition is common in people over 50, younger people may also develop symptoms of osteoarthritis. Factors like joint injury, obesity, muscle weakness, and having a family history of OA can all increase your risk of developing the condition at an earlier age.

Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune condition that causes your immune system to mistakenly attack your joints. Researchers don't know the exact cause of RA, but a combination of genetics and environmental factors (like infection or stress) can trigger your immune system. After the immune system becomes activated, it attacks the synovium (the lining of your joints), causing a range of symptoms like pain and stiffness.

RA usually starts in the feet and ankles and tends to affect the same joint on both sides of your body. People with RA often experience joint stiffness in the morning that lasts longer than 30 minutes. Other symptoms of this condition include:

• Extreme fatigue
• Low-grade fever
• Muscle weakness.

You may be at an increased risk of developing these symptoms if you were assigned female at birth, are middle-aged, or have a family history of this condition.

Psoriatic Arthritis

Psoriatic arthritis (PsA) is another autoimmune condition that occurs when your immune system attacks healthy cells in your joint tissue and skin. Many people who develop PsA also have an underlying diagnosis of psoriasis—a common skin condition that causes inflamed patches of itchy skin. However, it is possible to develop PsA without having psoriasis—though this is rare.

If you develop PsA, you may experience the following symptoms:

• Joint pain and stiffness
• Swollen fingers and toes
• Redness and swelling around the joints
• Inflamed and discoloured patches on the skin
• Nail discoloration and pitting (holes in your nails)
• Separation of the nail from the nail bed
• Limited range of motion in your joints

Gout

Gout is a type of inflammatory arthritis that occurs when your joints have an excessive build-up of uric acid (a waste product). When uric acid gets left in your body and builds up, it creates needle-like crystals around the joints, causing extreme joint pain and inflammation. Generally, gout develops in your big toe, but other body parts like your knees and elbows can also become affected.

This condition is very common, but you may have a higher chance of developing symptoms if you have an underlying diagnosis of obesity, metabolic syndrome, chronic kidney disease, hypertension (high blood pressure), and psoriasis.

When to Contact a Healthcare Provider

                                                                                                PORTRA / GETTY IMAGES

If you're experiencing joint pain, meet with your healthcare provider to learn how to reduce your symptoms and preserve the function of your joint. Consider reaching out to your provider if you develop any of these symptoms:

• Sharp, stabbing, or constant joint pain
• Limping
• Joint pain that worsens at night or after exercise
• Excessive swelling and tenderness around the joints

In some cases, arthritis-related conditions may lead to complications. If you have a type of arthritis and experience any of the following symptoms, it's important to seek prompt medical care:

• Joints that are discoloured or feel warm
• New skin rashes
• Chest pain
• Shortness of breath
• Fevers or chills
• Eye redness or pain
  

Diagnosis

If you're ready to make an appointment about your joint pain, it can help to understand the diagnostic process. In most cases, you'll see your primary care provider first to discuss your symptoms. If they think that you have arthritis, they will likely refer you to a rheumatologist—or, a doctor who specializes in inflammatory conditions that affect the joints, muscles, and bones.

During your appointment, your provider will ask about your medical history and perform a physical exam. They'll want to know if you have any underlying health conditions and check for symptoms like swelling, inflammation, stiffness, or warmth around the joints.

To learn more about your condition and overall health status, your provider may also order one or more of the following symptoms:

• Blood tests: Rheumatoid factor, antinuclear antibodies, and anti-double-stranded DNA are diagnostic tests used to detect autoimmune disorders. Erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) and C-reactive protein tests can also help detect inflammation.
• Joint fluid analysis: This exam involves using a needle to withdraw fluid from your joint to check uric acid levels or test you for an infection that may trigger your arthritis symptoms.
• Imaging tests: Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), computerized tomography (CT) scans, and X-rays can help to determine the extent of joint erosion and bone damage.

How To Treat Arthritis Pain

The goal of arthritis treatment is to help you better manage your pain, reduce symptoms, and improve your mobility. Over-the-counter (OTC) medications like Advil (ibuprofen) can help reduce inflammation, while Tylenol (acetaminophen) can help relieve pain. Depending on the type of arthritis you have, your provider may also order prescription-strength medication for you.

Other remedies in conjunction with medication can also help reduce symptoms. Consider the following pain-relieving treatments:

• Regular physical activity: Exercise and gentle movement can help strengthen the muscles that surround the joints and relieve pain.
• Heat or ice therapy: Heat can help relieve muscle pain surrounding the joint and ice plays a role in reducing inflammation. When using heat and ice therapy together, alternate which therapy you're using and apply each treatment for 15 minutes at a time. It's also helpful to use an ice pack or heating pad with a protective barrier, such as a towel.
• Massage: Swedish massages can relieve stress and promote relaxation in your body, while deep-tissue massages can help improve joint pain and reduce knots in the affected areas.
• Biofeedback: This mindfulness technique can help reduce pain by teaching you how to control your breathing, heart rate, and muscle responses.
• Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT): This type of psychotherapy helps you identify negative thoughts and feelings about your symptoms, which can help lower perceived stress levels and reduce pain.
  

A Quick Review

Many types of arthritis can cause joint pain, including osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and gout. While there's no cure for arthritis, several treatments can help reduce your pain, increase mobility, and improve your overall quality of life.

Your healthcare provider may recommend medication alongside treatments like massages, heat and ice therapy, and gentle physical activity to help you manage symptoms.

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