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Arthritis: what is it?
The term "arthritis" refers to over 100 different conditions that affect the joints (the places where two bones meet). Some forms of arthritis may also affect other areas of the body, such as the skin, heart, or kidneys. Often, arthritis is a long-lasting disease, affecting people over many years. Symptoms often include pain, stiffness, swelling, redness, and heat in the joints.
Although the disease process for all forms of arthritis differs from person to person and from disease to disease, all types of arthritis have certain features in common, which sometimes makes them difficult to accurately diagnose. Regardless of the type of arthritis, it is important to diagnose early so that treatment can be started.
The two most common forms of arthritis are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis
Osteoarthritis (OA), also known as degenerative arthritis or degenerative joint disease, is the most common type of arthritis, affecting 1 in 10 Canadians. Although OA can develop at any age, it usually develops after the age of 45, affecting both men and women equally. Cartilage deterioration in one or more joints is responsible for OA, leading to joint damage, pain, and stiffness. OA usually affects the knees, hands, feet, spine, and hips.
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) affects approximately 1% of Canadians. It usually strikes between the ages of 25 and 50. Women are at least twice as likely as men to get RA. RA is progressive, which means that it gets worse over time. Symptoms, which include stiffness, swelling, pain and joint damage, are a result of the inflammation of the joints in the body. It may also affect other areas of the body, including the heart, eyes, and lungs. RA is called an autoimmune disease because it is your body's own immune system that is fighting itself. RA can cause severe disability in some people, but it can be managed through medications and other treatments.
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