Arthritis is an autoimmune disease that directly attacks the joints. This is usually the primary cause of disability among people who are the age of fifty-five or above. Arthritis involves partial or complete breakdown of an element cartilage that protects the joints and allow them to move. When cartilage reduces in the bones it results in pain, swelling, and stiffness.
What Causes Arthritis :
The main cause of arthritis is yet to be established. Virus, bacteria and fungi have been suspected as major cause behind the disease but have not been proved yet. Doctors believe that the disease may be inherited genetically. There are however few factors that are to be involved as the prime cause of the disease. These factors include any previous injury, infections, allergic reactions, and certain foods. Even obesity can causes arthritis.
Symptoms of Arthritis:
Symptoms of arthritis may vary from one patient to another. The following are the most common symptoms of arthritis that need to be diagnosed and treated:
- Warmth around a joint
- Loss of appetite
- Fatigue/loss of energy
- Reduced ability or inability to move the joint
- Redness of the skin around a joint
- Stiffness, especially in the morning
How To Diagnose Arthritis :
Doctors perform laboratory tests and clinical analysis to confirm and establish the intensity of the disease. Doctors may undertake complete analysis of the previous medical history and assess the exact location of the joint where inflammation has triggered. They also evaluate the results of laboratory results done, blood tests, and other studies performed on the patient. They also prescribe MRI and CT scan to know the exact problem and recommend the medication accordingly.
How To Treat Arthritis And The Drugs Used:
Different treatments of arthritis are given to the patients depending upon their age and severity of the problem. However, doctors usually prescribe physical therapy and medication to handle the ailment. Some doctors may recommend surgery correction after measuring severity of the inflammation. Hydrotherapy, physiotherapy and occupational therapy are some of the treatments that are offered to the patients as per their medical conditions and response to the drugs. Some very powerful and effective drugs are also prescribed to treat arthritis. These drugs include Arthrotec, Celebrex, Myochrysine and Durolane.