Arthritis is a common condition that can cause pain and inflammation in the joints. Over time, the condition can worsen, leading to more pain and disability. In this article, we discuss how arthritis gets worse over time and what can be done to manage the disease.
What is Arthritis?
Arthritis is an umbrella term used to describe a group of conditions that cause inflammation and pain in the joints. It is most common in adults over the age of 65, but it can affect people of all ages. Common types of arthritis include osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and gout.
How Does Arthritis Get Worse Over Time?
Arthritis can worsen over time due to a number of factors. The progression of the disease can be affected by age, activity level, and genetics. It can also be affected by other medical conditions, such as obesity and diabetes.
Osteoarthritis is the most common type of arthritis, and it is caused by wear and tear on the joints. Over time, the cartilage that cushions the joints wears away, leading to pain and stiffness. As the cartilage continues to wear away, the pain and stiffness will worsen.
Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune condition in which the body’s immune system attacks the joints. With this type of arthritis, the inflammation can cause damage to the joints, leading to pain and disability. The inflammation can also cause the joints to become deformed over time.
Gout is caused by a buildup of uric acid in the joints. This buildup can lead to inflammation and pain. Over time, the pain and inflammation can worsen and cause long-term joint damage.
What Can Be Done to Manage Arthritis?
The best way to manage arthritis is to prevent it from getting worse. This can be done by exercising regularly, maintaining a healthy weight, and avoiding activities that put too much strain on the joints. It is also important to get regular medical care and to take medications as prescribed.
There are also a number of treatments that can help reduce the pain and inflammation of arthritis. These include physical therapy, hot and cold therapy, and medications. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to treat the condition.
Conclusion
Arthritis can get worse over time, leading to increased pain and disability. It is important to take steps to prevent the condition from worsening, such as exercising regularly, maintaining a healthy weight, and getting regular medical care. There are also treatments that can help reduce the pain and inflammation of arthritis.