What Are the 7 Types of Arthritis? A Quick Overview

Arthritis refers to inflammation of the joints, leading to pain, stiffness, and reduced movement. It affects millions
of people worldwide, often causing a significant impact on daily life. There are various types of arthritis, each
with its unique symptoms and causes. Understanding the types of arthritis can help manage the condition better. In
this article, we’ll cover the seven common types of arthritis, their effects, and how they can impact your
life. For expert arthritis care, visit Aashlok Hospital for treatment options and guidance.

Also Read : What Are the 7 Types of Arthritis? Pain Management Tips

How Arthritis Can Ruin Your Life?

Arthritis can significantly alter the way you live. Chronic joint pain makes even the simplest tasks difficult. As
your mobility decreases, everyday activities like walking or cooking can become a challenge. The emotional toll is
just as severe, as many people feel isolated and frustrated. If left untreated, arthritis can cause long-term
disability, affecting your quality of life.

Also Read : Know about the causes, symptoms, and treatment of arthritis

Constant Pain

Arthritis causes ongoing pain in affected joints. The pain can range from sharp to dull, but it’s always there.
Even basic movements can trigger discomfort. This pain makes daily tasks like walking or opening jars difficult.
Over time, constant pain wears down your mental and physical energy. Living with it often leads to frustration and
can affect relationships. This arthritis pain relief management becomes a constant effort.

Reduced Mobility

Stiff joints reduce your range of motion. Everyday movements like walking, bending, or even standing up become
harder. Climbing stairs or getting dressed turns into a struggle. As arthritis progresses, you might avoid physical
activity altogether. This can lead to muscle weakness and further restrict your mobility. Lack of movement often
creates a cycle of pain and stiffness, worsening the problem.

Sleep Issues

Arthritis pain can make sleeping through the night tough. You may wake up often and be unable to get comfortable.
This lack of quality sleep leaves you feeling exhausted. Fatigue then increases your pain sensitivity and makes it
harder to cope with daily life. The frustration of not sleeping well also affects your mood. Over time, this creates
a vicious cycle where poor sleep worsens your arthritis symptoms.

Mental Health Effects

Constant pain wears down not just your body but also your mind. Stress and anxiety often follow as you struggle with
daily tasks. Many people with arthritis experience depression due to their limited ability to live freely. Feelings
of helplessness grow when pain interferes with work or social life. This mental burden adds another layer of
difficulty to living with arthritis.

Impact on Work

Jobs that require physical activity may become impossible to do. Arthritis limits your ability to lift, bend, or move
quickly. This can make you less productive and more prone to injury. Over time, you might find it hard to continue
working in your current job. Career options may become limited, creating financial pressure. This strain adds to the
already challenging burden of living with arthritis.

Social Isolation

Pain makes socializing less appealing. You may decline invitations to outings because of discomfort. Over time, you
might avoid friends and family, leading to loneliness. As arthritis limits your ability to participate in social
activities, you might feel isolated. This can further affect your mental health. Maintaining a social life becomes
more difficult, adding another challenge to life with arthritis.

If you’re facing these challenges, Aashlok Hospital offers personalized arthritis pain relief tips to help manage
arthritis. Visit us to learn more about your options.

Also Read : Breakthrough Treatment for Rheumatoid Arthritis: Latest Updates

7 Kinds of Arthritis You Should Know About

Arthritis comes in many forms, each affecting the body in different ways. Knowing the type you have is key to getting
proper treatment. Here are the seven types of arthritis you should be aware of.

1. Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis. It happens when the cartilage that cushions joints wears down.
This causes bones to rub together, which leads to pain and stiffness. As the condition progresses, joint movement
becomes more difficult. The pain may worsen with activity or after long periods of rest. Osteoarthritis most often
affects the knees, hips, and hands. It can make daily activities challenging, such as walking or gripping objects.

2. Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disorder. The immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissues, particularly in
the joints. This causes inflammation, swelling, and damage to the joints. Rheumatoid arthritis mainly affects the
small joints in the hands and feet. Over time, it can cause joint deformities and loss of function. People with this
condition may also experience fatigue and general weakness, making daily tasks more difficult.

3. Psoriatic Arthritis

Psoriatic arthritis occurs in people with psoriasis, a skin condition. It causes joint pain, swelling, and stiffness,
often in the fingers and toes. The joints can become inflamed and stiff, making movement hard. Psoriatic arthritis
also causes changes in the nails, like pitting or separation from the nail bed. The severity of symptoms can vary,
with some people experiencing mild discomfort while others suffer from severe joint damage.

4. Gout

Gout is a form of arthritis caused by high levels of uric acid in the blood. The excess uric acid forms sharp
crystals that deposit in the joints, especially in the big toe. This leads to sudden and intense pain, along with
swelling and redness. Gout attacks can come on quickly, often at night, and last for several days. Repeated gout
attacks can lead to permanent joint damage if left untreated.

5. Ankylosing Spondylitis

Ankylosing spondylitis is one of the types of arthritis that primarily affects the spine. It causes inflammation of
the spinal joints, leading to pain and stiffness. Over time, some of the vertebrae may fuse, reducing flexibility
and causing a hunched posture. The condition can also affect other joints, like the hips and shoulders. Early
diagnosis is important to manage symptoms and prevent long-term complications.

6. Juvenile Arthritis

Juvenile arthritis affects children and teens, causing pain, swelling, and stiffness in the joints. It can impact one
or many joints, including the knees, wrists, and ankles. If not treated, juvenile arthritis can lead to permanent
joint damage. In addition to joint symptoms, some children experience fevers and skin rashes. The condition can also
affect a child’s growth and development, so early treatment is key.

7. Lupus

Lupus is an autoimmune disease that can affect various parts of the body, including the joints, skin, and organs. It
causes inflammation that leads to pain, swelling, and stiffness in the joints. Lupus can mimic other forms of
arthritis, making it difficult to diagnose. In addition to joint problems, lupus can cause fatigue, skin rashes, and
kidney issues. The severity of lupus varies, with some people having mild symptoms while others face
life-threatening complications.

Each type of arthritis requires a different approach to treatment. For expert advice, visit Aashlok Hospital and
discuss your symptoms with our specialists. We offer customized treatment plans to help you manage arthritis
effectively.

Also Read : Innovative Treatment for Rheumatoid Arthritis in 2024

Conclusion

Arthritis can greatly affect your quality of life, but it doesn’t have to. By understanding the different types
of arthritis and seeking the right treatment, you can manage the symptoms and live a more comfortable life. Early
diagnosis and care are crucial for slowing the progression of the disease. At Aashlok Hospital, we’re here to help you every
step of the way. Visit us today for expert arthritis care and treatment options tailored to your needs.