4 Different Types of Arthritis You Should Know

According to the CDC, about 54 million people in the United States struggle with arthritis.

If you’re one of those people, you might have one of the many different types of arthritis, but how do you know which one you’re struggling with?

Thankfully, we have all the information you need right here, so make sure you keep reading!

1. Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis happens when the tissues in the joints break down after a while. It’s one of the most common types of arthritis, and normally it affects seniors and elderly people.

If you have osteoarthritis, you’ll likely experience symptoms like having pain in your joints or your joints getting stiff after a few minutes. Normally this type of arthritis is common in your lower back, neck, hips, hands, and knees.

One of the treatments for osteoarthritis is a lifestyle change, like changing your diet or trying to lose weight. Exercise can also help.

If that doesn’t help you might be put on medication or have to have surgery. If you’re curious as to what medications are out there for arthritis, browse here.

2. Inflammatory Arthritis

Inflammatory arthritis happens when the immune system in the body attacks the tissues in the joint. This causes severe inflammation.

This type of arthritis is normally genetic, and your doctor can treat it with some medications. Some of them might be over the counter or prescription. In some cases, doctors will also recommend physical therapy as a treatment.

3. Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis is technically classified as an autoimmune disease. That means that the swelling and pain that comes from this arthritis is caused by the immune system attacking the tissues of healthy joints. If you don’t get treatment for this, your joints will keep getting damaged, and your limbs can even become disfigured.

If you have rheumatoid arthritis, you’ll have pain when you move or rest. Your joints will be tender to touch and normally swollen and warm as well.

You could also lose your appetite, be tired, or even have fevers.

For treatment, a doctor can often prescribe medication to help slow the process down. However, some doctors even recommend getting joint replacement surgery.

4. Psoriatic Arthritis

Lastly, psoriatic arthritis affects the area where your bone attaches to your skin. Experts aren’t sure what this disease is caused by, but they think it may be genetic.

Normally this arthritis occurs in people who already have psoriasis, which is a skin condition. It can occur on your ankles, knees, wrists, or your toes and fingers.

If you have this, you’ll likely be prescribed medication to treat it.

Discover More of the Different Types of Arthritis

These are only a few of the different types of arthritis, but there are more things you should be aware of.

If you think you’re struggling with arthritis, make sure you contact your doctor as soon as possible to get a treatment recommendation.

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