| 1 |
What is arthritis? |
Arthritis literally means joint inflammation. It's a broad term covering over 100 conditions that affect joints, the tissues surrounding joints, and other connective tissues. |
| 2 |
What are the common symptoms of arthritis? |
Symptoms vary by type but often include joint pain, stiffness (especially in the morning), swelling, redness, and decreased range of motion. Some types can cause fatigue or fever. |
| 3 |
What causes arthritis? |
Causes differ. Osteoarthritis involves wear-and-tear on cartilage. Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease where the immune system attacks joints. Gout is caused by uric acid crystals. Infections or underlying diseases can also trigger arthritis. |
| 4 |
How is arthritis diagnosed? |
Diagnosis involves reviewing your medical history, a physical examination of your joints, blood tests (to check for inflammation markers or specific antibodies), and imaging tests like X-rays, MRI, or ultrasound. |
| 5 |
What are the main types of arthritis? |
Common types include Osteoarthritis (OA), Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA), Psoriatic Arthritis (PsA), Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS), Gout, and Lupus-related arthritis. |
| 6 |
What is Osteoarthritis (OA)? |
OA is the most common type, often called "wear-and-tear" arthritis. It occurs when the protective cartilage cushioning the ends of bones wears down over time, leading to pain, stiffness, and reduced flexibility. |
| 7 |
What is Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)? |
RA is a chronic autoimmune and inflammatory disease. The immune system mistakenly attacks healthy cells, primarily targeting the lining of joints (synovium), causing painful swelling that can lead to joint deformity and bone erosion. |
| 8 |
What is the difference between RA and OA? |
RA is an autoimmune disease causing systemic inflammation attacking joint linings. OA is a degenerative disease caused by cartilage breakdown from wear-and-tear. RA often affects joints symmetrically (both sides), while OA may initially affect one side. |
| 9 |
What is Psoriatic Arthritis (PsA)? |
PsA is a form of inflammatory arthritis affecting some people with psoriasis (a skin condition). It can cause joint pain, stiffness, and swelling, along with skin patches and nail changes. |
| 10 |
What is Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS)? |
AS is an inflammatory arthritis primarily affecting the spine, causing inflammation of the spinal joints (vertebrae) that can lead to chronic pain and stiffness. In severe cases, vertebrae can fuse. It can also affect other joints. |
| 11 |
What is Gout? |
Gout is a common and complex form of arthritis characterized by sudden, severe attacks of pain, swelling, redness, and tenderness in joints, often the joint at the base of the big toe. It's caused by the buildup of uric acid crystals. |
| 12 |
What is Lupus and how can it affect joints? |
Lupus is a chronic autoimmune disease where the immune system attacks its own tissues, causing widespread inflammation. Joint pain and swelling (arthritis) are very common symptoms, often resembling RA but typically less damaging to bones. |
| 13 |
Why is early diagnosis important in rheumatology? |
Early diagnosis and treatment, especially for inflammatory arthritis like RA, are crucial. Starting effective therapy promptly can significantly slow disease progression, prevent irreversible joint damage, maintain function, and improve long-term quality of life. |
| 14 |
What are the goals of arthritis treatment? |
Treatment aims to reduce pain and inflammation, improve or maintain joint function, slow down joint damage, manage symptoms, and enhance overall quality of life. |
| 15 |
What medications are used to treat inflammatory arthritis? |
Treatments vary but include NSAIDs (for pain/inflammation), corticosteroids (potent anti-inflammatories), traditional DMARDs (like methotrexate, to slow disease), and newer targeted therapies like biologics and JAK inhibitors. |
| 16 |
What are biologic therapies for arthritis? |
Biologics are advanced, genetically engineered medications targeting specific immune system components driving inflammation. Given by injection/infusion, they are highly effective for RA, PsA, AS etc., often used when traditional DMARDs aren't enough. |
| 17 |
Are there newer types of oral medications for inflammatory arthritis? |
Yes, Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitors are a newer class of oral DMARDs (pills). They work inside cells to block inflammatory signals, offering another effective treatment pathway for conditions like RA and PsA. |
| 18 |
What is the role of physical therapy in managing arthritis? |
Physical therapy is vital. Therapists design exercise programs to improve flexibility, strengthen muscles supporting joints, enhance range of motion, reduce pain, and teach joint protection techniques. |
| 19 |
What lifestyle changes can help manage arthritis? |
Maintaining a healthy weight reduces joint stress. Regular low-impact exercise (swimming, walking) improves mobility and strengthens muscles. A balanced diet, stress management, and adequate rest are also important. |
| 20 |
Can diet affect arthritis symptoms? |
While no diet cures arthritis, an anti-inflammatory diet (rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, omega-3 fatty acids like in fish) may help manage symptoms for some. Avoiding processed foods and excess sugar is generally beneficial. |
| 21 |
Is surgery an option for arthritis? |
Surgery (like joint repair, fusion, or replacement) is considered for severe arthritis when pain and joint damage significantly limit function and haven't responded to conservative treatments. |
| 22 |
What is Fibromyalgia? |
Fibromyalgia is a chronic disorder characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain, fatigue, sleep disturbances, memory, and mood issues. While it causes pain in joints/muscles, it doesn't typically cause joint inflammation or damage like arthritis. |
| 23 |
What is osteoporosis and its connection to arthritis? |
Osteoporosis weakens bones, making them brittle and prone to fracture. It's not arthritis, but chronic inflammation (as in RA) and certain arthritis medications (like corticosteroids) can increase osteoporosis risk. Reduced mobility from arthritis can also contribute. |
| 24 |
How has technology improved arthritis care? |
Telemedicine allows remote consultations, improving access. Advanced imaging (ultrasound, MRI) aids earlier diagnosis and monitoring. Wearable devices and health apps help patients track symptoms, activity, and adherence to treatment plans. |
| 25 |
What is the long-term outlook for people with arthritis? |
The outlook varies greatly depending on the type/severity of arthritis and response to treatment. With modern therapies and proactive management, many people, especially those diagnosed early, can manage symptoms effectively, prevent significant damage, and maintain active lives. |
