What is arthritis?
Arthritis is a condition characterized by inflammation and stiffness in one or more joints of the body.
What is rheumatoid arthritis?
Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disorder in which the immune system attacks the joint lining, causing inflammation and pain.
What is psoriatic arthritis?
Psoriatic arthritis is a type of arthritis that occurs in people with psoriasis, a skin condition that causes red, scaly patches on the skin.
What are the symptoms of arthritis?
Symptoms of arthritis may include pain, swelling, stiffness, and limited mobility in the affected joint(s).
What causes arthritis?
Arthritis can be caused by a variety of factors, including genetics, age, injury, infection, and autoimmune disorders.
What are some treatments for arthritis?
Treatments for arthritis may include medication, exercise, physical therapy, and surgery in severe cases.
What is the role of a rheumatologist in treating arthritis?
A rheumatologist is a doctor who specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of arthritis and other rheumatic diseases.
What is the difference between rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis?
Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disorder, while osteoarthritis is caused by wear and tear on the joints over time.
Can arthritis be cured?
There is currently no cure for arthritis, but treatments can help manage the symptoms and slow the progression of the disease.
What is rheumatology?
Rheumatology is the branch of medicine that deals with the diagnosis and treatment of arthritis and other rheumatic diseases.
What is the difference between rheumatoid arthritis and psoriatic arthritis?
Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disorder that can affect multiple joints, while psoriatic arthritis typically involves the joints closest to the nailbed and may also cause inflammation in the eyes, skin, and nails.
How is arthritis diagnosed?
Arthritis is typically diagnosed based on a combination of symptoms, a physical examination, and diagnostic tests, such as X-rays, blood tests, and joint fluid analysis.
Can arthritis be prevented?
There is no sure way to prevent arthritis, but maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly, and avoiding injury can help reduce the risk of developing the disease.
What are some risk factors for developing arthritis?
Risk factors for arthritis may include age, family history, previous joint injuries, and certain autoimmune disorders.
What are some common medications used to treat arthritis?
Common medications for arthritis include nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), corticosteroids, disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs), and biologic agents.
What is the prognosis for someone with arthritis?
The prognosis for arthritis varies depending on the type and severity of the disease, but treatments can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life.
Can arthritis affect more than one joint?
Yes, arthritis can affect multiple joints in the body.
What is the difference between gout and arthritis?
Gout is a type of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints, while other types of arthritis may be caused by different factors, such as autoimmune disorders or wear and tear on the joints.
What is juvenile idiopathic arthritis?
Juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) is a type of arthritis that occurs in children under the age of 16 and is characterized by joint inflammation and stiffness.
What is the prevalence of arthritis?
Arthritis affects an estimated 54 million adults in the United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
What are some lifestyle changes that may help manage arthritis symptoms?
Lifestyle changes that may help manage arthritis symptoms include maintaining a healthy weight, eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, and minimizing stress.
What is an arthritic flare-up?
An arthritic flare-up is a sudden increase in inflammation and pain in the affected joint(s), which may be triggered by factors such as stress or infection.
What is the difference between inflammatory arthritis and noninflammatory arthritis?
Inflammatory arthritis is caused by an immune system response, while noninflammatory arthritis may be caused by wear and tear on the joints over time.
What is reactive arthritis?
Reactive arthritis is a type of arthritis that develops in response to an infection in another part of the body, such as the urinary tract or intestines.
What is the difference between osteoarthritis and degenerative arthritis?
Osteoarthritis is a type of degenerative arthritis that occurs when the cartilage that cushions the joints wears down over time, causing pain and stiffness.
What is the link between psoriasis and arthritis?
Psoriasis and arthritis may be linked by a shared immune system dysfunction, and people with psoriasis may be at higher risk for developing psoriatic arthritis.
What is septic arthritis?
Septic arthritis is a type of arthritis that occurs when bacteria or other infectious agents enter the joint space, causing inflammation and pain.
What is facet arthritis?
Facet arthritis is a type of arthritis that affects the facet joints in the spine, causing pain and stiffness in the back and neck.
What are some alternative treatments for arthritis?
Alternative treatments for arthritis may include acupuncture, massage therapy, and herbal supplements, but it is important to consult with a healthcare provider before trying any new treatments.