An informal term that is used to describe more than 100 different conditions, arthritis is the leading cause of disability in the United States. Symptoms usually worsen over the years, with swelling and stiffness being two of the most common pains. This September, celebrate Arthritis Awareness Month by educating yourself about the four main types of arthritis and how you can manage and reduce your pain.
Osteoarthritis
The most common type of arthritis, this degenerative disease causes the cartilage to wear away, creating pain and stiffness as bones and joints rub against each other. Joint replacement surgery may be needed in the most severe cases.
Infectious Arthritis
Triggered by bacteria or a virus, infectious arthritis is often caused by food poisoning. Antibiotics are used to treat the infection, but chronic pain can ensue if left unchecked.
Inflammatory Arthritis
A type of arthritis that involves the attack of joints from the immune system, genetics plays a large role in this inflammatory disease. Early treatment is necessary to minimize the painful effects of this disease.
Metabolic Arthritis
Uric acid can build up within the body, resulting in shooting pain in the joints. Often called gout, symptoms will come and go in episodes that vary in length.
Managing your Arthritis
Talk to your doctor about your disease and work together to create a pain management plan that works for you. Exercise and a healthy diet can help to keep your pain at bay, and a good night’s sleep is always important. Keep track of your condition, what works to reduce your pain and when it flares up the worst. Combine medications with natural options to reduce the fatigue that is bogging your body down.
Whether you or a loved one is suffering from debilitating arthritis, education yourself on this disease and learn what you can do to make day to day life easier. Visit the Arthritis Foundation to learn more and contact Your Own Home, LLC at 302-478-7081 to learn more about our New Castle County, DE home care services.