Arthritis-Risks1

Page 1

Arthritis Who is at risk? Arth r it is Pain Relief http://track.moreniche.com/hit.php?w=252380&s=199 Arthritis is a term that means “joint inflammation”. There are over 100 forms of Arthritis which affect the joints of those suffering from the disease which may also affect the muscles as well as other tissues in the body. The two most common forms of Arthritis are Rheumatoid Arthritis and Osteoarthritis. Osteoarthritis: Osteoarthritis is a disease of the joints. Persons that have a high level of wear and tear on their joints often develop the disease. The cartilage, which is a slippery, soft tissue, covers the end of the bones in a joint. When the cartilage breaks down, the disease occurs. When the cartilage is healthy, the bones in the body glide over one another, absorbing the stress that is placed on the joint, thus protecting them from damage. When the layer of cartilage is worn down, the bones rub together which causes great pain and swelling and can lead to a loss of movement. Rheumatoid arthritis: White blood cells are responsible for helping to protect the body. With Rheumatoid Arthritis, the person’s immune system is defective and causes the white blood cells to attack healthy tissues, especially those tissues in the joint lining. The joint affected by the condition may lose its alignment and shape and results in pain and loss of movement. The effects of Rheumatoid Arthritis can be felt throughout the body and not just in the joints. Problems such as swelling, redness, warmth, stiffness and pain are common conditions which may be experienced throughout the body. Other forms of Arthritis include: Gout: Is a rheumatic disease which occurs most often in the small joints of the body, such as the big toe. The disease is a result of a defect in the body’s chemistry. Juvenile Arthritis: Juvenile Arthritis is a term which is used for all forms of Arthritis that affect children. Ankylosing spondylitis: Ankylosing spondylitis is a condition which causes inflammation in the joints of a person’s backbone. The condition causes the bones of the spine to grow together, creating inflammation and pain. What puts you at the risk of arthritis? To be able to prevent Arthritis, you must be aware of what puts you at risk for developing the disease. Common risk factors that are associated with developing the disease and flare ups include:


Elderly: Among the elderly, there is a high rate of Arthritis. Among persons over 65 half are suffering with Arthritis. Arthritis is not just a disease that affects the elderly; it can be experienced at all ages. Women: Among Arthritis sufferers, women are inflicted with the disease more so then men. This is true in every age group that suffers with Arthritis. For instance, among those living with Arthritis, two-thirds are women. Throughout the world, the percentage of women living with Arthritis is 24.4% where as the percentage of men is 18.1%. Arthritis can occur in all age groups and all racial and ethnic groups. Family history (Heredity / Genetic tendency): Arthritis can be hereditary meaning, if a family member has the disease, you have a greater chance of developing the disease. Obesity: Because when a person is overweight the joints experience more pressure, which increases the risk of the condition. Joint trauma: If you have experienced an injury early in life, it can later lead to the development of Arthritis. Low socioeconomic class: Among persons with less income and less education, Arthritis is more common. In fact, one-third of adults suffering with the disease, have less than a high school education. Also, lower incomes are higher among older women suffering with the disease. Being aware of the risk factors that lead to the development of the disease, will help you to prevent and treat the condition of Arthritis which can be disabling. Knowing more will help you to prevent more. Arth r it is Pain Relief http://track.moreniche.com/hit.php?w=252380&s=199


Turn static files into dynamic content formats.

Create a flipbook
Issuu converts static files into: digital portfolios, online yearbooks, online catalogs, digital photo albums and more. Sign up and create your flipbook.