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ARTHRITISThe word arthritis literally means joint inflammation. It is often used to refer to a group of more than 100 rheumatic diseases that can cause pain, stiffness, and swelling in the joints. These diseases may affect not only the joints but also other parts of the body, including important supporting structures such as muscles, bones, tendons, and ligaments, as well as some internal organs.The common denominator for all these conditions is joint and musculoskeletal pain which is why they are grouped together as Arthritis. Arthritis most commonly affects the areas in or around the joints. Different types of arthritis can affect one or more parts of a joint, often resulting in a change in the shape and alignment of the joints. Arthritis usually causes stiffness, pain and fatigue. The joints of the body are the site of most of the action in arthritis. Some of the warning signs of arthritis are joint inflammation, swelling, stiffness, inflammation, constant or recurring pain or tenderness in a joint, difficulty using or moving a joint normally, redness or warmth. These symptoms may be accompanied by weight loss, fever or weakness. Arthritis can be a debilitating condition in which even small day to day activities and movements become hard to perform. Three major factors which a play a role in the onset of arthritis include the genetic factors which you inherit from your parents, what happens to you during your life and how you live your life. People who are over weight have a higher frequency of arthritis. Joint injuries and excessive over use of the joints can increase the risk of some types of arthritis. How ever doctors are still not sure as to what is the exact cause of arthritis, though scientists are still trying to find that out. It is important to find out if you have arthritis and if so of what type. Early diagnosis and treatment of arthritis can help slow the joint damage that can occur during the first few years. Some basic things which you can do on your own are- try to keep your weight down, lose any excess weight, exercise ( according to the plan provided by your doctor), take your medicines as and when you are supposed to, try taking a warm shower in the morning, see your doctor regularly and seek proper medical guidance and as much information as you can Though there is no cure for arthritis, there are a number of treatments and therapies available. These should be followed only after consultation with a qualified doctor. |
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