An estimated 43 million people in the United States suffer with some form of arthritis or rheumatic condition, and the website NetWellness.org projects that over 60 million Americans will have the debilitating disease by the year 2020. Knowing the causes of arthritis and rheumatism may help prevent the disease in some cases. Recognizing the signs and symptoms of these conditions will encourage people to seek proper medical treatment. Understanding treatment increases the likelihood a patient will comply with therapy.
Definition
Rheumatism is a term fading from everyday use; most medical professionals use the phrase "rheumatic diseases" to describe the group of conditions which affect the body's joints and connective tissues. Rheumatic diseases usually result in pain and stiffness in these joints. Arthritis is the primary cause of disability among Americans, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Arthritis literally means joint inflammation, according to the UW Medicine website. Arthritis is a form of rheumatic disease.
Anatomy
Bones provide the body's underlying support and structure, and muscles move the bones at pivot points known as joints. Cartilage forms a protective covering at the ends of each bone. A little bag of fluid between the bones, called the synovium, enables the joints to move smoothly. Arthritis degrades the cartilage and synovium, causing bones to grind together at the joint. In cases of acute arthritis, the bones may actually fuse to one another and completely immobilize the joint.
Types
There are over 100 types of arthritis, according to Medline Plus, the most common being rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. Fibromyalgia, gout, tendonitis, and bursitis are all forms of arthritis.
Causes
There is a wide range of causes for arthritis, and in some cases the cause is not known. Osteoarthritis is due to wear and tear and is usually seen in older people. Repetitive actions and obesity increase pressure on bones and joints, making osteoarthritis worse. Rheumatoid arthritis is characterized by inflammation of the fluid inside the synovium. The cause of rheumatoid arthritis is unknown. Post-traumatic osteoarthritis is caused by joint injury.
Signs and Symptoms
Pain and stiffness in the joints are the most common symptoms for those suffering arthritis. The person may have limited mobility in the joint, decreasing his range of motion. Deformity of the joint is common. Rheumatoid arthritis is characterized by redness and swelling of the joint.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis begins with a physical exam at the doctor's office, where a detailed history will be taken. Blood tests may be ordered to detect rheumatoid arthritis or gout. Radiology tests, like x-rays and CAT scans, and MRIs can help a physician determine the health of the joints and severity of disease.
Treatment
Sadly, there is no cure for most types of arthritis. Fortunately, there are medications that may reduce swelling and inflammation, thereby easing the stiffness and pain that arthritis can bring. Gout may be relieved by omitting certain foods and beverages from the diet, such as beer, wine and certain types of meats and fish. Steroids also alleviate pain but do have potential side effects. Sometimes a needle is used to remove excess fluid from the joint. Physical therapy may also be beneficial to keep the affected joints moving smoothly. In worst case scenarios, surgery may be performed to fuse bones so the ends no longer rub together. While fusing bones together may reduce range of motion, it may also relieve pain and allow the patient to regain use.
