The different types of arthritis

Arthritis, often seen as a singular health issue, is a complex family of musculoskeletal disorders. The common feature among them is they all affect the joints, but the reasons behind the pain and discomfort, and the joints they target, can vary. Understanding the different types of arthritis is important not only for accurate diagnosis but also for creating a personalised treatment plan that can improve your quality of life.

Osteoarthritis

What is osteoarthritis?

Osteoarthritis, often dubbed as ‘wear and tear’ arthritis, is the most common form, affecting millions worldwide. It happens when the protective cartilage cushioning the ends of your bones wears down over time, leading to bone-on-bone contact that can cause discomfort, pain, and reduced mobility.

Symptoms and commonly affected joints

The main symptoms of osteoarthritis include persistent joint pain’ stiffness, particularly in the morning or after periods of inactivity, and decreased range of motion. Commonly affected joints are the knees, hips, hands, and spine, although it can manifest in any joint subjected to excessive stress or injury.

Risk factors of osteoarthritis

Several risk factors contribute to the onset of osteoarthritis including getting older, joint injuries, obesity, and sometimes, family history. Also, overuse of certain joints due to work or leisure activities can speed up the wear and tear process.

Management and self-care tips

Although there’s no cure for osteoarthritis, a range of treatments combined together can ease symptoms and improve quality of life. This may include maintaining a healthy weight, engaging in regular physical activity, physiotherapy, using supportive devices like braces, and taking over-the-counter pain relievers or prescription medications as advised by a healthcare professional.

Gout and calcium crystal diseases

Understanding gout and calcium crystal diseases

Gout is a form of inflammatory arthritis triggered by the crystallisation of uric acid within the joints, leading to severe pain, especially in the big toe.

Common symptoms of gout

The sudden onset of excruciating joint pain, often in the dead of night, is a common gout symptom, with the big toe being a frequent target. Pseudogout shares similar symptoms with gout but may also manifest as a chronic arthritic condition.

Causes of gout

High levels of uric acid, because of either overproduction or under-excretion (your body not getting rid of it efficiently enough), lead to gout. Factors like a diet rich in purines like red meat, certain medications, and renal (kidney) problems can contribute to elevated uric acid levels. In the case of pseudogout, the exact cause is unclear, although genetics and other health conditions may play a part.

Lifestyle and dietary adjustments to help gout

Managing gout and pseudogout often requires a combination of medication to control inflammation and pain, and lifestyle changes. A diet low in purines, maintaining a healthy weight, and avoiding alcohol can significantly reduce gout flare-ups. Regular check-ups and following a tailored treatment plan under the guidance of healthcare professionals can keep these conditions under control.

Rheumatoid arthritis

What is rheumatoid arthritis?

Unlike osteoarthritis, which comes from wear and tear on the joints, rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disorder where the body's immune system mistakenly attacks its own joint tissues.

This immune response can cause severe inflammation, leading to joint damage and chronic pain over time.

How the immune system attacks the joints

In RA, the immune system primarily targets the synovium, a thin membrane that lines the joints, causing it to thicken with inflammation. Over time, this inflammation can spread to cartilage and bones within the joint, leading to wear and deformities. Moreover, the inflammation can also affect various organs and systems within the body, which causes the disease to affect other areas of the body.

Common symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis

The symptoms of RA often include tender, swollen joints, joint stiffness especially in the morning or following inactivity, and persistent pain. It may also cause fatigue, fever, and weight loss. Though it typically affects the small joints of the hands and feet initially, RA can impact larger joints like the knees and shoulders.

Medicinal and management approaches for RA

Managing RA involves a combination of medication, physiotherapy, and lifestyle modifications. Medications like nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), steroids, and disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) can help manage symptoms and slow down the disease. By taking part in regular exercise, a balanced diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods, and stress-reducing activities like yoga and meditation can also provide relief.

Spondyloarthritis

What is spondyloarthritis?

Spondyloarthritis is an umbrella term for inflammatory diseases that affect the spine and, in severe cases, can lead to fusion of the vertebrae. This family of diseases mainly includes ankylosing spondylitis and psoriatic arthritis but may also include other similar conditions.

Common symptoms and affected areas of spondyloarthritis

The symptoms of spondyloarthritis often include chronic back pain and stiffness, which might worsen during periods of rest or inactivity, particularly during the early morning hours. The inflammation primarily targets the spine and sacroiliac joints but can also affect other joints, tendons, and ligaments.

Importance of early diagnosis and treatment

Early diagnosis and prompt treatment of spondyloarthritis can help manage symptoms, slow disease progression, and maintain a good quality of life. It's advisable to seek medical attention if you experience persistent back pain, especially if you're under 45 and have a family history of spondyloarthritis.

Ankylosing spondylitis

Ankylosing spondylitis and its impact on spinal joints

Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is a form of spondyloarthritis where chronic inflammation of the spine and sacroiliac joints lead to severe back pain and stiffness. Over time, AS can cause the vertebrae to fuse together, significantly reducing spinal mobility and potentially leading to a stooped posture.

Common symptoms of ankylosing spondylitis

The hallmark symptoms of AS include chronic pain and stiffness in the lower back, hips, and buttocks, which may worsen following periods of inactivity or during the early morning. Over time, symptoms might progress up the spine and even affect other areas like the eyes, heart, and lungs.

Therapeutic exercises and medical treatments for AS

Managing AS is best managed using a range of different treatments, including medication, physiotherapy, and exercise. Anti-inflammatory drugs and medications can help control inflammation and ease symptoms.

Regular exercise, particularly stretching and strength training, can maintain joint flexibility and reduce discomfort. Also, working closely with healthcare professionals can help tailor a treatment plan to manage symptoms effectively and maintain an active, fulfilling life.

Psoriatic arthritis

Relationship between psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis

Psoriatic arthritis (PsA) is a type of inflammatory arthritis that commonly occurs in individuals with skin condition psoriasis. Psoriasis presents as red, scaly patches on the skin and may start before joint symptoms of psoriatic arthritis. However, it's also possible for joint symptoms to arise before any skin symptoms or to occur on their own.

Symptoms of PsA vary depending on the type

Psoriatic arthritis presents quite uniquely, with symptoms and severity varying from person to person. Common symptoms include joint pain and stiffness, skin rashes, nail changes, fatigue, and eye inflammation. The disease can show up in various forms, affecting different joints and presenting a variety of symptoms which can copy other types of arthritis, making an accurate diagnosis crucial for effective management.

Treatment options for PsA and importance of early intervention

Early diagnosis and treatment of psoriatic arthritis can help manage symptoms and prevent joint damage. Treatment plans often include a combination of medication, physiotherapy, and lifestyle modifications.

Medications may include NSAIDs, disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs), and biologics. Patients may also benefit from a healthy diet, regular exercise, and stress management techniques.

Juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA)

How JIA affects children

Juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) is an umbrella term for various types of arthritis affecting children under the age of 16. It represents a group of autoimmune and inflammatory conditions that can cause joint pain, swelling, and stiffness in children, impacting their daily activities and quality of life.

Symptoms of JIA and the impact on your child’s lifestyle

The symptoms of JIA may include persistent joint pain, swelling, stiffness, and limping, particularly after waking up in the morning or after a nap. These symptoms can drastically affect your child's ability to partake in everyday activities, play with friends, and maintain a positive outlook.

Treatment plans for JIA focusing on improving quality of life

Managing JIA often requires a multidisciplinary approach involving paediatric rheumatologists, physiotherapists, and other healthcare professionals. Treatment aims to control inflammation, ease any pain, and improve function while creating a positive, supportive environment for your child and you.

Coping and managing arthritis

Effective arthritis management involves a combination of medical treatment, physical activity, balanced nutrition, and stress management. It's important to stick to prescribed treatment plans, maintain a regular exercise regime, adopt a balanced, anti-inflammatory diet, and use stress-reducing techniques like mindfulness and relaxation exercises.