There are many different types of arthritis, or joint inflammation. For example, osteoarthritis is the breakdown of joint surfaces and cartilage. Rheumatoid arthritis and ankylosing spondylitis are chronic inflammatory diseases caused by an autoimmune reaction. Other types of arthritis or similar conditions include psoriatic arthritis, gout, systemic lupus erythematosus and lime disease. All arthritis types cause similar destruction and inflammation in the joints.
Pain
Pain in the joints is one of the most common symptoms that occur with virtually every type of arthritis, according to MayoClinic.com. Localized joint pain may happen because of inflammation in the joint, or may be the result of improper movement after joint and cartilage destruction has occurred. Another common symptom with arthritis is radiating pain. This type of pain travels along the course of a nerve into the periphery of the body, and is caused by nerve compression or irritation in the spine. Many types of arthritis are common in the spinal column. This radiating pain can happen when the joints, cartilage and nearby soft tissue degenerate enough that they put pressure on a nerve or irritate nerves with inflammatory chemicals. It is possible to diagnose the location of the offending joint by recognizing which nerve paths are affected. Pain associated with arthritis is often treated with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications such as aspirin, ibuprofen and naproxen.
Joint Stiffness
Stiffness of the joints is another very common symptom associated with virtually all forms of arthritis. Stiffness may be worse in the morning or after periods of inactivity, according to MedlinePlus. Individuals who experience joint stiffness and joint pain may find it difficult to exercise, but physical activity is critical for reducing symptoms and maintaining joint health, according to MayoClinic.com.
Redness
Since rheumatoid arthritis and several other forms of arthritis are actual inflammatory conditions, they can cause inflammation of the synovial lining of the joints. This inflammation causes joint pain, warmth, swelling and redness, according to the Arthritis Foundation. Inflammatory chemicals involved can lead to actual destruction of the bone and cartilage in the joints. Many people with arthritis eventually develop severe dysfunction and distortion of their joints because of this process.
Other Symptoms
There are over 100 different types of arthritis, according to MedlinePlus, and each may have slightly different symptoms. Some forms of arthritis affect the joints as well as various organs. Other common arthritis-like symptoms include fatigue, weakness, muscle pain, loss of appetite, depression, anemia, rashes and fever.
