Arthritis or Rheumatism?
My grandmother was affected by arthritis. She would experience pain without reason. She constantly complained of unexplained chronic pain in various parts of the body. I often saw her taking painkillers. With time the symptoms only grew worse. People would ask if it was rheumatism. And then someone would say maybe it's arthritis. Rheumatism is a term people usually use to describe the symptoms of arthritis.
Yes, arthritis is a broad term or an umbrella term to describe many associated diseases of the joint. It is a term used for any disease which may affect the joints. Some other organs can be affected too. The onset can be sudden or may show up in parts, gradually increasing the pain. There are more than 100 different types of arthritis, which have various causes. Two of the most common types are Osteoarthritis and Rheumatoid arthritis.
For many, the word rheumatism may mean rheumatoid arthritis, and arthritis would refer to osteoarthritis. Although medically there is no term such as 'rheumatism'. It is rheumatoid arthritis or rheumatology. Osteoarthritis is caused mainly due to wear and tear, and Rheumatoid arthritis is the result of an autoimmune condition. They both exhibit different symptoms. Let us understand these terms better.
Osteoarthritis
The cartilage is connective tissue. It protects the joints by stopping the bones from rubbing against one another. Osteoarthritis causes the cartilage to wear off, and, this leads to friction between the bones, causing discomfort and pain. The overuse of the joint can also lead to this condition. Old age is another important factor, that could lead to osteoarthritis.
Symptoms of osteoarthritis
Pain or swelling in the joints
Growth of bones in the fingers
A grating-like feeling in the knee
Motion can be limited but may improve with movement
Weakness of muscles around the joints
Rheumatoid arthritis
Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune condition. An autoimmune condition arises when the cells in the body begin to attack its tissues. The body attacks the tissues of the joints resulting in severe pain. There is swelling in the joints, and it is sometimes; accompanied by fever. It tends to affect joints on either side of the body.
Symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis
Stiffness in the morning
Multiple joints feel the pain
Same joints on either side of the body may be affected
Fever
Weakness
Weight loss
Low blood count of red cells
Living with arthritis is a painful condition, a constant fight with your own body. The pain only grows intense, making it impossible to do your daily jobs. It affects your everyday life and mental health. The best way is to treat the disease before it takes hold over you. So how to know if you have arthritis? Well, if you are experiencing any symptoms, just go for a preventive check-up that will help the doctors, diagnose the condition and treat it well in advance, before the condition aggravates, giving you trouble. Some blood tests and diagnostic test help to understand the progression of the disease. Diagnosing and monitoring play a critical role in easing the journey with any type of arthritis.
Prophylaxis
A well-balanced diet and exercise help keep the joints and muscles active; this is good to prevent or delay the onset of any form of arthritis.
Swimming is an excellent form of exercise to keep the joints active.
Yoga is another healthy way to keep arthritis at bay.
The next best option is to regularly go for routine health check-ups.
Preventive health check-ups are a lifesaver; literally for many.
Diagnosing a disease before it manifests, makes treating it very easy. An early diagnosis is a powerful tool, it can curb the disease from spreading or growing. We at Indus have a large team of committed and resourceful people who will assist you with health check-ups. We offer solutions and options to suit your need. Our comprehensive range of lab tests ensures that we give you the perfect results and diagnosis. It is simple, affordable, and easy.
So, what are you waiting for? Book your preventive health check-up today!
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