Arthritis: How the condition develops and affects daily life
Signs of arthritis can come and go, varying in intensity; for many people, the condition can become more painful as the years go by. Severe arthritis can lead to chronic pain and disability. An early diagnosis – confirmed by your doctor – can help to preserve joint function, mobility, and quality of life. This is because management of the condition can begin, which may involve exercise, weight loss, and medication.
When should I go to see the doctor?
The Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) said: “Talk to your doctor if you have arthritis symptoms such as pain, stiffness, or swelling in or around one or more of your joints.”
Risk factors for developing arthritis
Being overweight puts more stress on the joints, especially in the hips and knees.
Meanwhile, microbial agents – such as bacteria and viruses – can infect the joint and potentiality cause some forms of arthritis.
Furthermore, any joint injuries can damage a joint, increasing the likelihood of osteoarthritis – the most common form of arthritis in the UK.
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