Arthritis is a common condition that affects millions of people worldwide. But did you know that there are more than 100 different types of arthritis? Each type comes with its own symptoms, causes, and treatment options. In this guide, we’ll explore the most common types of arthritis and how they differ, so you can better understand the condition and find the right management plan.
What Is Arthritis?
Arthritis is a general term that refers to inflammation of the joints. This inflammation can cause pain, stiffness, swelling, and reduced movement. While arthritis is often associated with aging, it can affect people of all ages, including children.
Now, let’s take a closer look at the most common types of arthritis.
1. Osteoarthritis (OA) – The “Wear and Tear” Arthritis
Osteoarthritis occurs when the protective cartilage that cushions the joints wears down over time. It is most commonly seen in older adults but can also develop due to joint injuries or repetitive movements.
The symptoms of OA include pain, stiffness, and swelling around the joints, reduced flexibility and range of motion, and a grating sensation or popping sounds when moving. It commonly affects joints in the knees, hips, hands, and spine.
2. Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) – An Autoimmune Disease
Unlike osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune condition. This means the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks healthy joint tissue, leading to inflammation and damage.
The symptoms of RA include joint pain, stiffness, and swelling (often in a symmetrical pattern), fatigue and general body weakness, fever, weight loss, and morning stiffness lasting more than an hour. It can affect the hands, wrists, knees, and ankles.
3. Psoriatic Arthritis (PsA) – Linked to Psoriasis
Psoriatic arthritis is another autoimmune disease that affects people with psoriasis, a skin condition that causes red, scaly patches. The immune system attacks both the skin and the joints.
The symptoms include swollen, painful joints, skin rashes, nail changes (such as pitting or separation from the nail bed), and morning stiffness. Patients may also experience eye inflammation or uveitis in some cases.
Psoriatic arthritis commonly affects the fingers and toes (often causing a sausage-like swelling), as well as the knees, ankles, and lower back. It’s usually treated and managed with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) for pain relief and topical skin treatments for psoriasis symptoms.
4. Gout
Gout occurs when uric acid crystals build up in the joints, leading to sudden and severe pain attacks. It is often linked to diet and lifestyle factors, as well as genetic predisposition.
The symptoms of gout are intense joint pain, often in the big toe, as well as redness, swelling, and warmth in the affected joint. Patients may also experience sudden flare-ups, usually at night, and have limited joint movement during an attack.
While it’s most common in the big toe, gout can also affect the ankles, knees, and wrists. It’s managed with medications to lower uric acid levels (e.g., allopurinol), as well as NSAIDs and corticosteroids for pain relief.
Schedule Your Arthritis Appointment Today
At Advanced Rheumatology of Houston, our experienced rheumatologists specialize in each of the types of arthritis we’ve discussed above. If you experience joint pain, stiffness, or swelling, don’t ignore it – early diagnosis and management can make a huge difference in maintaining mobility and quality of life.
Contact us today to discuss your symptoms and develop a treatment plan.
