Arthritis literally means joint inflammation. Joints are places where two bones meet, such as your elbow or knee. There are many different types of arthritis with different causes and treatments. In some types, other organs, such as your eyes, heart, or skin, can also be affected.

There are multiple types of arthritis that can impact the old and the young. Discover what they are and if there is a cure. And get the best tips on how to prevent arthritis.

You may notice more aches and pains in your joints as you age. Maybe it’s harder than it used to be to recover from a hard workout. Maybe you’ve noticed some cracking or clicking in your joints or tenderness in your hands and wrists.
As we grow older, the wear and tear on our joints can start to take its toll on the body. While it’s common, it can be a painful sign of ageing.

While there are many forms of arthritis, generally speaking, it’s a disease that can damage the joints. It causes stiffness, cracking, tenderness, and pain. Some arthritis can become so severe that the joints are inflamed, swollen, and painful to the touch. In some cases, arthritis can even make the joints appear deformed.

While some forms of the condition can happen at younger ages, for example, rheumatoid and juvenile arthritis, it’s most common after the age of 50. It can also occur at younger ages for athletes.

What Causes Arthritis?

Lifestyle factors, injuries, genetic predisposition, infections, and immune system dysfunctions are all potential contributors to the development of various types of arthritis. Each type has its unique causes and risk factors.

According to the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention, nearly 47 percent of people over 65 have arthritis, while it impacts 26 percent of people between the ages of 45 and 65.

What Are the Risk Factors for Arthritis?

While arthritis can be a part of normal ageing, it can also be caused by a host of risk factors. For example, women are more likely to have arthritis, as are athletes and those who stress their joints because of the nature of their jobs.
Smoking, genetics, and excess weight can also cause arthritic joint damage.

What Are Common Types of Arthritis?

While there are numerous types, certain forms are more prevalent. These types of arthritis each have distinct causes and impact patients differently. But the two most common are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.

Therefore:

• Osteoarthritis Arthritis
• Rheumatoid Arthritis
• Gout
• Psoriatic Arthritis

What Is Osteoarthritis?

Osteoarthritis is common as we age. It’s caused by injuries or even normal wear and tear, which leads to a breakdown in the cartilage that serves as support between the joints. Viral infections such as COVID-19 can aggravate symptoms of osteoarthritis

What Is Rheumatoid Arthritis?

Rheumatoid arthritis, on the other hand, is caused by the immune system attacking itself and breaking down the joint lining. It can be debilitating and, in many cases, can decrease mobility, even in the young.

What is Gout?

Gout is a unique type of arthritis characterized by the accumulation of uric acid crystals in the joints. This build-up leads to severe joint pain and inflammation. Gout is often associated with dietary choices and can be intensely painful.

What Is Psoriatic Arthritis?

Psoriatic arthritis is directly linked to the skin condition, psoriasis. In individuals with psoriatic arthritis, the skin disease triggers an inflammatory response in the joints.
This type of arthritis can lead to joint damage and discomfort, mirroring symptoms found in other forms of arthritis, yet it has its unique root in a dermatological condition.

Can Arthritis Be Cured?

While there is no cure for arthritis, you can take steps to reduce its impact on the body. Over-the-counter pain relievers like aspirin, ibuprofen, and naproxen sodium can relieve arthritis pain and the inflammation that can go along with it.

In some cases, cortisol shots can also be given when OTC medications are no longer effective. Joint replacement or spinal fusion surgeries can also be done when patients have exhausted all non-surgical methods

How To Prevent Arthritis

Athletes are often common patients because they become so addicted to their favourite workouts that they refuse to see the signs of arthritis. If you’re a runner or obsessed with another high-impact sport, it might be time to try a lower-impact sport like walking or swimming.

Try to stay moving because stagnation can make the condition worse. Physical therapy and other forms of slower, less intense movement might be just what the doctor ordered. Also, if you’re obese, losing weight is crucial because putting too much weight on your joints can damage cartilage.

According to Emmatea (@Emmatea15), Ageing can come with its share of aches and pains, but that doesn’t mean you have to give up the things you love. Rather, consider adjusting them a little. If you ignore joint pain for too long, its impact may become irreversible.

What foods to avoid if you have arthritis?

In the Kitchen with Arthritis: Foods to Avoid;

• Processed foods. Avoid processed foods, such as baked goods and prepackaged meals and snacks.
• Omega-6 fatty acids.
• Sugar and certain sugar alternatives.
• Red meat and fried foods.
• Refined carbohydrates.
• Cheese and high-fat dairy.
• Alcohol.