There are approximately 350 million people in the world who suffer from a form of arthritis. There are many types of arthritis but the most common include the “wear and tear” of the joints, osteoarthritis. Rheumatoid arthritis, a chronic inflammatory autoimmune disease that causes joint discomfort is also very common. Other types of arthritis include Psoriatic arthritis, lupus, gout and septic arthritis. Arthritis causes joint pain and swelling, but it can also affect other body parts too. Check out these 5 ways arthritis could be affecting your body.
Rheumatoid arthritis can create heart problems.
Rheumatoid arthritis can create inflammation that damages blood vessels resulting in an increased risk of heart attack, stroke, heart disease and heart failure.
Osteoarthritis causes knee pain.
Knees are easily affected by osteoarthritis because they carry more weight than any other joint in the body. Swelling, pain and stiffness are all symptoms of Osteoarthritis in the knees. Suffers of osteoarthritis may have trouble climbing stairs, getting out of the car and walking long distances.
Lupus affects the digestive system.
Inflammation from lupus can cause fluids to build inside of the abdomen. Symptoms include abdominal pain, nausea, fever, and constipation. Lupus patients are at increased risk for inflammation of the pancreas as well.
Rheumatoid arthritis can lead to skin conditions.
This type of arthritis can cause rashes on the arms or legs. Rashes or ulcers can occur when rheumatoid arthritis is untreated for a long period of time.
Rheumatoid nodules, small painless lumps located under the skin, can also be a result of this condition.
Osteoarthritis can cause enlargement of finger joints.
Osteoarthritis leads to Heberden’s nodes, the small bony knobs that form on the ends of finger joints. The nodes are usually painless and tend to develop over many years. The problem is mainly cosmetic.
If you are having trouble with arthritis, the staff here at Pain Specialists of Charleston offers advanced treatment options. You do not have to live with the discomfort of arthritis, call us today 843-818-1181.