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Arthritis - Could Lead to Serious Pain in the JointsArthritis is the name given to a number of over 100 medical conditions that affect the musculoskeletal system. Arthritis often causes pain in the joints, and arthritis pain relief may be necessary. Joint-related arthritis problems are the most common form of arthritis;
however systemic arthritis can affect the whole body. The impact of arthritis on women depends on the type of arthritis that each woman has, but many arthritis conditions may be very painful and debilitating. Women are more likely to get arthritis than men, but the reasons for this are not exactly known.Common Types of Arthritis in WomenThere are over 100 different types of arthritis and women are more likely to develop arthritic conditions. Here are some of the most common forms of arthritis in women.- Osteoarthritis. This is also known as degenerative joint disease. This type of arthritis usually occurs in older people. Osteoarthritis wears away the cartilage (which protects the bones in a joint) and in some cases it can wear completely away, causing bones to be in contact with each other. Osteoarthritis can make it difficult to people to move. Knee arthritis is a type of osteoarthritis.
- Rheumatoid arthritis. This affects the immune system and attacks joints, tissies and organs. It occurs most often in women between the ages of 15 and 45. It can cause pain, swelling and stiffness and in severe cases can deform joints.
- Fibromyalgia. This is a disorder that creates pain in the tissues that support bones and joints.
- Infectious arthritis. This type of arthritis is caused by a bacterial or viral infection.
- Tendinitis. This type of arthritis is an inflammation of the tendons. It may be caused by overuse, injury or a rheumatic condition.
These are just some of the types of arthritis. Other common types of arthritis include reactive arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, polymyalgia and rheumatica.Symptoms of Arthritis in WomenDifferent symptoms may be experienced with different types of arthritis. Most types of arthritis will include the following symptoms.- Pain and stiffness in the joints;
- Swelling around the joints;
- Difficulty in moving a joint;
- Warmth or redness in a joint.
Diagnosis of ArthritisIt is often difficult to diagnose arthritis because many of the symptoms can by symptoms of other diseases. In making a diagnosis, your doctor may perform some of the following tests.- Physical exam.
- Looking for swelling, redness and deformity in joint.
- Checking how easily joints can be moved.
- Examining heart, lungs, eyes, ears and throat.
- Blood tests.
- Urine tests.
- Synovial fluid tests.
Continue to: Arthritis Treatment
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