Arthritis: When Does It Start?
Arthritis is a chronic condition that causes pain, stiffness, and swelling in the joints. It can affect people of all ages, but it usually begins to develop in people over the age of 40. While there is no single cause of arthritis, it is most often related to age-related wear and tear of the joints.
Osteoarthritis is the most common type of arthritis, and it affects the joints of the hands, feet, hips, and spine. Osteoarthritis is caused by the breakdown of cartilage in the joints, which can lead to pain and inflammation. It typically starts to affect people after age 40, but it can also develop earlier due to an injury or overuse of the joints.
Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disorder that affects the joints. RA causes the body's immune system to mistakenly attack the joints, leading to inflammation, pain, and swelling. This type of arthritis can develop at any age, but it is more common in people between the ages of 20 and 50.
Gout is a type of arthritis that is caused by a buildup of uric acid in the joints. This type of arthritis is more common in men than women and usually starts to affect people in their 40s or 50s. It can cause sudden and severe pain in the joints, as well as swelling and redness.
Psoriatic Arthritis is a type of arthritis that is linked to psoriasis, an autoimmune disorder that causes scaly patches on the skin. Psoriatic arthritis can affect people of any age, but it is more common in people between the ages of 30 and 50.
In conclusion, arthritis can affect people of any age, but it is most often seen in people over the age of 40. It is important to speak with your doctor if you are experiencing joint pain, stiffness, or swelling, as early diagnosis and treatment can help minimize symptoms and prevent further damage to the joints.