Arthritis is the swelling and tenderness of one or more joints in the body. The main symptoms are joint pains and stiffness, which typically worsens with age.
The most common types of Arthritis are Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) and Osteoarthritis (OA)
Rheumatoid Arthritis is an autoimmune disease, where the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy body tissues, causing painful inflammation and swelling as well as stiffness, severe fatigue and, sometimes deformity in the hands, shoulders, knees, or feet.
Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is a lifelong condition that requires regular treatment, and living with it, can be very challenging.
Osteoarthritis (OA) is another common type of arthritis affecting millions of people world wide. Unlike Rheumatoid,it is caused by the gradual wearing away of the protective cartilage that cushions the end of bones over a period of time. Although, Osteoarthritis can damage any joint, it affects mainly joints in your hands, knees, hips and spine. While age is an important risk factor in Osteoarthritis, Rheumatoid Arthritis is caused by autoimmune disease.
For some people, joint damage can begin as early as 3 months after the onset of the Rheumatoid Arthritis symptoms, while others, develop joint damage after two years.
If R A or O A are left untreated or under treated, the joint pains and swelling could worsen overtime and lead to permanent damage.
In addition to physical symptoms, Rheumatoid Arthritis and Osteoarthritis can impact severely on the mental health of the victim, affecting his every day to day activities or even his relationship.
How can you treat, manage and perhaps prevent these health conditions?
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