Symptoms of Arthritis

by John Robben

In a previous article, we discussed what Arthritis is and its many forms, now it is time to take a look at the symptoms of Arthritis. Arthritis shows up in various ways. Some of the first symptoms include things like knees cracking when you stand up, general pain or swelling around joints that lasts for more than two weeks, you may also notice that pain in your joints increases as you move, also you may notice increased stiffness in your joints when you wake up in the morning, and your joints may appear red and feel warm to the touch.

Some other symptoms of Arthritis include fever, a sense of feeling tired all the time, even a feeling that you have the flu. If you experience any of these symptoms, it is imperative that you see your doctor or physician at once. Only a doctor can truly diagnose whether you have Arthritis, and because there are over 100 forms of Arthritis, it is also important to determine which form of Arthritis you have. The different forms of Arthritis have different symptoms as well. It is also important to seek medical treatment as soon as possible, since Arthritis has no known cure, the sooner you seek treatment and begin a regimen of care, and the better your results of managing your Arthritis will be. Your treatment plan may include things such as a specific course of medicine, plenty of rest, adequate diet, and proper nutrition, losing weight if you are overweight, and in severe cases, surgery may be required. In future articles we will look at treatment options, from Acupuncture to Zinc.

Is it Rheumatoid Arthritis or Osteoarthritis?

We've discussed that there are over 100 forms of Arthritis. The most common forms are Osteoarthritis, Rheumatoid Arthritis, and Gout. All of these forms have different symptoms and require testing by your physician for an accurate diagnosis. Here are some of the symptoms and differences between Rheumatoid Arthritis and Osteoarthritis.

Doctors Who Treat Arthritis

If you have been diagnosed with some form of arthritis (there are over 100 different kinds of arthritis!), you probably know that there are many types of doctors who specialize in working with arthritis patients. Here is a brief overview of some of the doctors that you may have to work with in order to conquer your own personal battle with arthritis.

Rheumatologist: Often referred to as an "arthritis doctor." A rheumatologist is a specially trained doctor that specializes in diseases of the musculoskeletal system. Rheumatologists diagnose and treat common forms of arthritis, including lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, gout, fibromyalgia, and osteoporosis. If you are diagnosed with some form of arthritis, chances are you will not be working with a rheumatologist. Most of the time, you will remain under the care of your primary physician, but may occasionally be referred to a rheumatologist. For more information, contact the American College of Rheumatology.

Pediatric Rheumatologist: Also an arthritis doctor, but a pediatric rheumatologist is specially trained to diagnose and treat musculoskeletal diseases in children. Like a regular rheumatologist, a pediatric rheumatologist will probably not be the child's sole physician, but rather work with the primary physician and team of other doctors.

Podiatrist: Also commonly referred to as foot doctor or foot surgeon. A podiatrist diagnoses and treats conditions affecting the feet or ankles. Most podiatrists are also licensed to do surgery and prescribe drug therapies. A podiatrist's main goal is to treat inflammation and pain located in the area of the feet. Another main goal is to preserve proper joint function, and to treat various foot conditions such as bunions and calluses.

Physical Therapists or Occupational Therapists: These doctors specialize in helping patients improve their mobility and manage the pain associated with their condition. Physical therapists are specially trained to help patient's regain mobility, improve flexibility, and manage their pain through specially designed exercises. Many physical therapists are also trained in providing arthritis patients with soft-tissue massages. Occupation therapists provide similar help to patients, but tend to focus on helping patients achieve more comfortable and efficient ways to accomplish everyday tasks. The pain of arthritis can make even simple tasks painful and difficult to execute. An occupational therapist can show arthritis patients easier and more comfortable ways to accomplish the tasks that you may encounter everyday at home and at work. These may include different techniques for doing things more efficiently at work and at home.

Orthopedic Surgeon: Sometimes called orthopedists or "bone doctors," these doctors are specially trained to evaluate and treat bone disorders. They also examine and treat problems affecting the patient's tendons, joints, and ligaments. Orthopedic surgeons specialize in joint replacement therapies, arthroscopy, and any surgery related to arthritis. Most of the time, another doctor will have to refer you to an orthopedic surgeon if you appear to be a candidate for special surgery. There is also a special pediatric orthopedic surgeon that is can help treat juvenile arthritis. There are also sports medicine orthopedic surgeons that are specialized in helping treat people who have suffered sports injuries.

Symptoms of Osteoarthritis:

· Osteoarthritis Typically begins in one Joint · Osteoarthritis Typically affects only the Joints · Osteoarthritis does not affect Internal Organs · Osteoarthritis affects Cartilage · Osteoarthritis causes Stiffness in the Joints when waking in the Morning · Osteoarthritis is a Result of Wear and Tear on the body

Osteoarthritis is a result of cartilage being broke down. As this takes place, the bones rub together. This typically happens in the knees, hips, hands, and spine. Unfortunately, when the pain sets in there has already been a substantial loss and damage to the cartilage.

Rheumatoid Arthritis has different symptoms than Osteoarthritis. Here are the symptoms of Rheumatoid Arthritis. Symptoms of Rheumatoid Arthritis

· Extreme Tiredness and Fatigue · Low Grade Fever · Muscle Pain and Aches · Appetite Loss · Painful and Swollen Joints · Redness and Heat at the Joint Site

Typically, Rheumatoid Arthritis affects the joint of the body in a symmetrical fashion. Rheumatoid Arthritis is a systematic disease and it often affects other organs in the body, and not just joints.

The symptoms of Rheumatoid Arthritis often appear, and then enter a state of remission. There is no proven reason as to the exact cause of Rheumatoid Arthritis, however it has been suspected that bacteria, fungi, and infections may cause it. There has also been evidence that Rheumatoid Arthritis is a hereditary condition. It is also believed that certain triggers, such as poor nutrition, stress, and infection can bring on Rheumatoid Arthritis.

· Stay tuned for our next article, "Osteoarthritis: Cause and Treatments".

About the author:

Written by John Robben of Ultimate Water Massage, Inc. Providing Massage Services and Pain Relief products. Visit our Arthritis Information Center

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Arthritis Site Map

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