About Arthritis
Most chronic joint problems are due to arthritis, a collection of long-term conditions causing joint deterioration, stiffness, and pain. Visit Tyler Internal Medicine Associates P.A. at their office in Tyler or Lindale, Texas, if you need help managing arthritis symptoms. The dedicated medical professionals offer effective treatments and chronic care management for patients with all forms of arthritis. Call your nearest office or request an appointment online today for compassionate arthritis care.
Arthritis Q & A
Is Arthritis Just One Disease?
Arthritis is a general term for diseases causing chronic joint pain. It has numerous forms — over 100 conditions come under the arthritis umbrella. Some cause widespread joint pain, while others affect specific joints. Many forms are rare, but more common ones include:
- Osteoarthritis
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Psoriatic arthritis
- Gout
- Septic arthritis
Of these, more people develop osteoarthritis than any other kind.
Why Does Arthritis Develop?
Arthritis has various causes, depending on the type of condition. Infections can trigger septic arthritis, while gout develops when uric acid builds up and forms crystals in your joints — typically in the big toe, but it can also affect the knees and other joints.
Rheumatoid arthritis and psoriatic arthritis are autoimmune disorders. They develop when your immune system mistakenly attacks healthy cells, leading to joint inflammation and damage.
Osteoarthritis — by far the most common form — develops gradually over decades. It’s caused by wear-and-tear that erodes the protective cartilage on the ends of your bones. Without this tough, slippery coating, the bones catch and rub together, creating inflammation, stiffness, and pain.
What Symptoms Might Arthritis Cause?
Arthritis symptoms vary depending on the specific condition and its severity, but all forms cause long-term or recurring joint pain.
Gout attacks are intense, often causing hours or days of immense pain and heat in the affected joint before subsiding. These attacks typically target the big toe but can also affect other joints like the knees.
Autoimmune arthritis conditions such as rheumatoid or psoriatic arthritis can trigger systemic symptoms like fever, fatigue, and even digestive issues.
Osteoarthritis often affects many joints, with the most common areas being the hands, hips, and knees. Pain may begin as a dull ache but can escalate into severe flares, accompanied by redness, swelling, and warmth. Over time, joints may become stiff, weak, and even twisted or misshapen, leading to a gradual loss of function.
Arthritis symptoms tend to worsen as the disease progresses. In many cases, they can be highly disabling, significantly reducing mobility and overall quality of life.
What Treatments Help with Arthritis?
Although arthritis is incurable, Tyler Internal Medicine Associates P.A. offers several treatments to help manage your symptoms, including:
- Physical therapy
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
- Serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs)
- Lubricating hyaluronic acid injections
- Anti-inflammatory corticosteroid injections
- Disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs) for autoimmune disorders
Lifestyle changes are also crucial in managing arthritis symptoms. Excess body weight puts unnecessary strain on your joints, so maintaining a healthy weight is vital. Additionally, a healthy diet, regular gentle exercise, and stress reduction can make a significant difference.
Call Tyler Internal Medicine Associates P.A. or book an appointment online today for expert long-term arthritis care.
