Arthritis is a disease characterized by the inflammation between our joints. This is either caused by trauma, infection or old age. There are over one hundred different types of arthritis and it is likely that at some point in our lives we will be affected by at least one of them, even if it is only in a minor way. Let’s take a look a little at exactly what arthritis is.
It is commonly believed that arthritis doesn’t affect people until old age; this couldn’t be further from the truth. In reality, this disease can affect people at any age. Almost 3 out 5 diagnoses are on people under the age of 65.
Almost any part of your body can be affected arthritis, including your vital muscles. This, of course, is life threatening and if you spot the symptoms of arthritis, it is vital that you seek medical help as soon as possible. Most forms of arthritis are not curable; treatment will go a long way to prolonging your life and making your symptoms a bit easier to live with.
What Causes Arthritis?
Since there are a number of different types of arthritis; there are a number of different causes of it. Let’s take a look at some of the most common forms of arthritis, as you will be able to see each of them has a different route cause.
1. Osteoarthritis
This is the type of arthritis that people generally associate with the older generation. This is caused by joints wearing down over time. The onset of this form of arthritis is gradual and will take a number of years to really show its full effect on the body. This type of arthritis can also occur if you injure any of the joints within your body.
2. Rheumatoid Arthritis
This is an incredibly painful form of arthritis which is caused when the body turns on itself and begins attacking the synovium, which is the cell lining within the joint.
It is currently unknown how this form of arthritis occurs but it is commonly believed to be down to genetic reasons.
3. Gout
This form of arthritis is caused by elevated levels of uric acid in your system. This uric acid crystallizes between your joints causing painful inflammation. This form of arthritis is easy to avoid, you just have to cut down on sugary foods that you consume as well as meat and seafood.
Other types of arthritis are caused by infections that get into the joints thereby causing inflammation.
Arthritis Pain Relief
If you have any form of arthritis, you will be subject to a great deal of pain during your daily life. Luckily there are a number of things that you can do in order to relieve your symptoms.
Ibuprofen is a common painkiller that can be found in most supermarkets and pharmacists. In fact, I am willing to bet that the majority of you will have this in your cupboard now. This is particularly effective on arthritis as its helps reduce the inflammation within your joints making it much easier to move.
Massage is a common type of pain relief used by many people, it helps bring a great sense of relaxation to your joints, and even if the effects only last a couple of hours the treatment is still worth it.
Many people apply hot or cold treatment to the affected joints. You will have to establish which the best is for you. The general idea is that you are stopping blood from flowing to the joint; thereby reducing inflammation.
Surgery is also an option in many cases. If you are suffering from arthritis then your doctor will tell you whether this is a viable form of pain relief.
There are natural, herbal supplements you can take to increase energy. Supplements such as Provailen focuses on relieving your pain by targeting your painful joints. It eases the symptoms of arthritis, and works on removing stiffness and inflammation of your achy and painful joints.
If you are experiencing any signs of arthritis, then it is vital that you visit your doctor in order to establish which type of arthritis you have as well as decide the best course of ‘management’ for your condition. Failure to visit a doctor will mean you end up incredible amounts of pain as well as putting your life at risk.