Arthritis is a broad term for conditions that cause joint pain, stiffness, and swelling. It affects millions of people worldwide and can impact daily life significantly. While arthritis is often associated with aging, it can affect individuals of all ages. Identifying the type of arthritis you have is essential for proper treatment and management.
Common Symptoms of Arthritis
- Joint pain and tenderness
- Swelling and redness around the joints
- Stiffness, especially in the morning
- Reduced range of motion
- Fatigue and general discomfort
Arthritis comes in various forms, each with unique causes and symptoms. Below are some of the most common types and how to identify them.
Types of Arthritis
1. Osteoarthritis (OA)
Osteoarthritis is the most common type of arthritis, often referred to as “wear-and-tear” arthritis. It occurs when the protective cartilage that cushions the ends of the bones deteriorates over time.
Symptoms:
- Joint stiffness and pain that worsens with activity
- Bone spurs (extra bone growths)
- Popping or cracking sounds in joints
- Decreased flexibility
2. Psoriatic Arthritis
Psoriatic arthritis is a type of inflammatory arthritis that affects people with psoriasis, a skin condition that causes red, scaly patches.
Symptoms:
- Swollen fingers and toes (dactylitis)
- Nail changes, such as pitting or detachment
- Lower back pain
- Joint pain that comes and goes
3. Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS)
AS is a type of arthritis that primarily affects the spine, causing inflammation in the vertebrae and leading to chronic pain and stiffness.
Symptoms:
- Lower back pain and stiffness, especially in the morning
- Pain that improves with movement but worsens with rest
- Limited mobility in the spine
- In severe cases, a hunched-forward posture
4. Pseudogout
Pseudogout occurs when calcium pyrophosphate crystals build up in the joints, leading to sudden and painful swelling.
Symptoms:
- Sudden joint pain, usually in the knee
- Swelling and warmth in the affected joint
- Recurrent flare-ups
5. Lupus
Lupus is an autoimmune disease that can cause inflammation in joints, skin, and other organs.
Symptoms:
- Joint pain and stiffness
- Fatigue
- Skin rashes, especially a butterfly-shaped rash on the face
- Sensitivity to sunlight
6. Sjogren’s Syndrome
This autoimmune disorder primarily affects the glands that produce tears and saliva, leading to dry eyes and mouth.
Symptoms:
- Dry eyes and mouth
- Joint pain and stiffness
- Fatigue
- Swelling of salivary glands
7. Inflammatory Myopathies
These conditions cause muscle inflammation, leading to weakness and pain.
Symptoms:
- Progressive muscle weakness
- Difficulty swallowing
- Joint pain and swelling
- Fatigue
8. Polymyalgia Rheumatica
This inflammatory disorder causes muscle pain and stiffness, particularly in the shoulders and hips.
Symptoms:
- Sudden onset of muscle pain
- Stiffness, especially in the morning
- Mild fever and weight loss
- Fatigue
9. Vasculitis
Vasculitis is the inflammation of blood vessels, which can lead to restricted blood flow and organ damage.
Symptoms:
- Joint and muscle pain
- Fever
- Unexplained weight loss
- Skin rashes or ulcers
10. Scleroderma (Systemic Sclerosis)
This rare autoimmune disease causes skin thickening and can affect internal organs.
Symptoms:
- Skin tightening and thickening
- Raynaud’s phenomenon (cold fingers and toes that turn white or blue)
- Difficulty swallowing
- Joint stiffness and pain
Managing Arthritis
While there is no cure for arthritis, several treatment options can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life:
- Medications: Pain relievers, anti-inflammatory drugs, and disease-modifying treatments
- Physical Therapy: Improves flexibility and strengthens muscles around joints
- Lifestyle Changes: Healthy diet, regular exercise, and weight management
- Chiropractic Care: Helps relieve joint pain, improve mobility, and reduce inflammation
Get Expert Arthritis Care at Greater Chicago Specialty Physicians (GCSP)
If you’re experiencing joint pain and stiffness, early diagnosis is key to effective treatment. At Greater Chicago Specialty Physicians (GCSP), we offer comprehensive arthritis care tailored to your needs. Our specialists provide expert diagnosis, treatment, and long-term management plans to help you stay active and pain-free.
Book an appointment today with GCSP and take the first step towards better joint health!