Arthritis is one of the several conditions that might force you to use a walking stick to prevent exerting pressure on your joints. While some people might find relief in ice packs and heating pads, other people prefer prescription medicine to help them live a pain-free life. Dr. Singh is an internal medicine expert who specializes in diagnosing and treating arthritis in El Centro. Boasting a team of experts in treating arthritis, these professionals will relieve your chronic pain and improve your life’s quality.
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What is arthritis?
When you have an inflammation in one or several joints, your doctor could diagnose you with arthritis. This inflammation is characterized by pain, stiffness, or swelling of the affected joint or joints. However, arthritis is not a single joint ailment. The condition also affects the joint’s surrounding tissues and other connective tissues.
There are several types of arthritis, each with its causes and treatment options. However, rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis are the common types. Though it is common in adults, the rheumatic condition also affects people of different ages, including children.
How do you get arthritis?
A reduction in your cartilage tissue causes some types of arthritis. Cartilage is the connective tissue protecting your joints by absorbing shock and pressure during movement and when you exert pressure on them. Other causes of this rheumatic condition include:
- Wear and tear. An injury or infection exacerbates your cartilage tissue’s breakdown, resulting in osteoarthritis. However, you have a high chance of developing osteoarthritis if your family has a history of the condition.
- Autoimmune disorder. You are likely to suffer from rheumatoid arthritis if you have an autoimmune disease. The disorder causes your body’s immune system to attack your tissues.
Who is at risk of getting arthritis?
Arthritis is not a preserve for specific people. It affects the young, old, and people of all backgrounds and races. However, you are likely to suffer from the condition if you:
- Have a family history of arthritis
- Are obese
- Are middle-aged or above
- Have previously suffered from a joint injury
How does your doctor diagnose arthritis?
When you go to your doctor for a diagnosis, he will first conduct a physical exam, review your medical history and evaluate your symptoms. He will check your affected joints for swelling, redness, and warmth. Additionally, the doctor might also ask you to engage in a series of easy physical exercises for him to monitor how well your joints move. To effectively point out the type of arthritis responsible for your symptoms, the doctor will recommend an MRI, X-ray, or a joint fluid test.
After diagnosis, your doctor will devise a treatment plan depending on your symptoms’ severity. He will first advise you to exercise regularly, eat a balanced diet, or lose weight. If lifestyle changes fail, he might recommend some prescription medication or corticosteroid and joint injections.
Early detection and treatment of your arthritis type will help your doctor manage your symptoms, relieve you from pain, and prevent you from further damaging your affected joints. Do not suffer in silence when the professionals can prescribe the best treatment option that best works for you. Book an arthritis appointment or directly contact the experts today for more information.