I have been suffering from arthritis for long now

I have been suffering from pains around my legs and ankles and taking pain killers for a long time. I got tired and went to the hospital and was diagnosed with arthritis. I need information about this problem. Katherine N. Thanks Katherine for your question. “Arthritis is a joint disorder. A joint is an area of the body where two bones meet. A joint functions to allow movement of the body parts it connects. Arthritis literally means inflammation of one or more joints. Arthritis is frequently accompanied by joint pain.” Some causes The causes of arthritis depend on the form of arthritis. Causes include: • Injury • Abnormal metabolism • Inheritance • Infections • Overactive immune system (such as rheumatoid arthritis). Symptoms of arthritis • Symptoms of arthritis include pain and limited function of joints.

• Inflammation of the joints from arthritis is characterized by joint stiffness, swelling, redness, and warmth.

• Tenderness of the inflamed joint can be present.

• Loss of range of movement and deformity can result.

• Some forms of arthritis are more of an annoyance than a serious medical problem. However, millions of people suffer daily with pain and disability from arthritis or its complications.

• In some patients with certain forms of arthritis symptoms can also include fever, gland swelling, weight loss, fatigue, feeling unwell, and even symptoms from abnormalities of organs such as the lungs, heart, or kidneys. When to seek medical care If joint pain, swelling, stiffness, redness, loss of motion or deformity occurs, medical evaluation by a health-care professional is needed. Even minor joint symptoms that persist unexplained for over one week should be evaluated. For many forms of arthritis, it is essential that patients have an early evaluation as it is clear that this can both prevent damage and disability as well as make optimal treatment easier.

Investigations

• History taken for symptoms, then examination for joints inflammation and deformity, as well as ask questions about or examine other parts of the body for inflammation or signs of diseases that can affect other body areas.

• Blood, urine, joint fluid, and/or Xray tests might be ordered. Earlier and accurate diagnosis can help to prevent irreversible damage and disability.

• Properly guided programs of exercise and rest, medications, physical therapy, and surgery options can improve long-term outcomes for arthritis patients.

Some treatment options

• The treatment of arthritis depends on which particular form of arthritis is present, its location, severity, persistence, and any underlying background medical conditions of the patient. Each treatment program must be customized for the individual patient. Treatment programs can incorporate home remedies, nonprescription and prescription medications, joint injections, and surgical operations.

• Some treatment programs involve weight reduction and avoiding activities that exert excessive stress on the joint.

• The goal of treatment of arthritis is to reduce joint pain and inflammation while preventing damage and improving and maintaining joint function. Self-care • Treatment may not be necessary for arthritis with minimal or no symptoms. When symptoms are troubling and persist, however, treatment might include pain and anti-inflammatory medications such as, rest, heat/cold applications, and topical pain creams can be helpful.

• Some patients get significant relief of pain symptoms by dipping their hands in hot wax (paraffin) dips in the morning. Warm water soaks and wearing night-time cotton gloves (to keep the hands warm during sleep) can also help ease hand symptoms. Gentle range of motion exercises performed regularly can help to preserve function of the joints. These exercises are easiest to perform after early morning hand warming.

• Pain-relieving creams that are applied to the skin over the joints can provide relief of daytime minor arthritis pain. Finally, when arthritis symptoms persist, it is best to seek the advice of a doctor who can properly guide the optimal management for each individual patient.Regular followup with the health-care professional for monitoring can be essential for optimal results and is crucial when medications are taken.