Arthritis: Causes, Symptoms and Treatments

Arthritis is a common ailment that nearly every person will have to deal with in their lives. There are two basic types of arthritis: osteoarthritis and rheumatoid. Osteoarthritis arthritis is typically developed over time due to joints wearing out, inactivity, and even some diseases. In contrast, rheumatoid arthritis can affect people of any age. It is usually attributed to infections and can lead to painful swelling in the joints. Rheumatoid arthritis has even been known to affect the heart, lungs, and eyes as well.

Symptoms of Arthritis: The symptoms of both types of arthritis are basically the same. Joint swelling, tenderness, and even redness are among the common symptoms of both osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Rheumatoid arthritis in particular can become much more severe, inducing weight loss, anemia, and stiffness throughout the body.

Luckily, those afflicted with either type of arthritis can seek treatment for pain and swelling. Most treatments include medication that is effective at reducing swelling and alleviating pain. However, it is warned that careful supervision of a physician is utilized to ensure that any possible side effects are kept to a minimum. Also, there are many instances of possible negative interactions with other medication that one may be taken.

Recommendations: Aside from prescription medication, there are also some other helpful ways to treat arthritis and relieve the effects it has on the body. The greatest impact that can help alleviatearthritis pain is weight loss. This will reduce the stress on the joints and help with pain management. There are also over the counter vitamin supplements that are geared towards joint health such as vitamin B complex and Beta Carotene. As always, any person thinking about starting a weight loss or vitamin regime should seek a doctor’s advice before doing so.