Search:

Learn all about arthritis!

WHAT IS ARTHRITIS?
For most people arthritis pain and inflammation is a normal process as the body ages. In

fact, most people over the age of 50 show some signs of this disease. Joints naturally

degenerate over time.
Arthritis is a term that includes a group of disorders that affect the joints and

muscles. Arthritis symptoms include joint pain, inflammation and limited movement of joints. When

a joint is inflamed it may be swollen, tender, warm to the touch or red. Surrounding each joint

is a protective capsule holding a lubricating fluid to aid in motion. Cartilage, a slippery

smooth substance, covers most joints to assure an even, fluid motion of the joint. With joint

arthritis, the cartilage may be damaged, narrowed and lost by a degenerative process or by

inflammation making movement painful.
There are over 100 types of this degenerating process and rheumatic diseases including

osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and fibromyalgia.

MANAGEMENT OPTIONS
Fortunately, arthritis can be managed through a combination of medication, exercise,

rest, weight-management, nutrition, and, in some cases, surgery. Arthritis is a chronic disease

that will remain for a long time and possibly for the rest of the patient’s remaining life. The

treatments will probably change over time and medication may be adjusted.

SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS
There are many different signs and symptoms of arthritis. If one experiences pain,

stiffness, or swelling around a joint for more than two weeks, then he should visit the

physician. Only a physician can determine if this is because of arthritis. These symptoms may

come up suddenly or slowly over time and may also include sleeplessness, fatigue, depression, and

muscle aches.
The doctor will confirm the type of problem and will then prepare the course of

treatment.

Article Source: http://thisarticle.com

Umema Quettawala is a MBBS. She has wide knowledge on various health related issues and been writing on various topics since many years. To read more about Glucosamine, Chondroitin, MSM, arthritis supplement, j

Please Rate this Article

Not yet Rated

Click the XML Icon Above to Receive Diseases Articles Via RSS!

Additional Articles From - Home | Health & Fitness | Diseases

Article Directory Software
Click here to download the exact software that powers this directory for FREE. Start your own article directory today!

	Print This Article
	Post Comment
	Add To Favorites
	Email to Friends
	Ezine Ready

Submit Articles
Member Login
Top Authors
Most Popular Articles
Submission Guidelines
Ezine Notifications
Article RSS Feeds

New Stuff
About Us
Site Blog
Forum
Link to Us
Contact Us
Privacy Policy
Terms of Service