Types Of Arthritis And Rheumatic Diseases

Rheumatic diseases are a group of conditions that affect the joints, muscles, and bones. There are several different arthritis and rheumatic diseases, each with unique symptoms and treatments. These diseases are also known as musculoskeletal disorders.

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Difference Between Arthritis and Rheumatic Diseases

While arthritis is the most common rheumatic disease, many others affect people worldwide. Each type of arthritis and rheumatic disease has its unique symptoms and treatments.

Arthritis affects the joints, while other rheumatic diseases can affect any part of the body, including the muscles, bones, and organs.

Types of Arthritis

The most common types of arthritis are:

  1. Osteoarthritis: This type of arthritis is caused by wear and tear on the joints. It is the most well-known form of arthritis and affects millions of people worldwide.
  2. Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA): This type of arthritis is an autoimmune disease that causes inflammation in the joints. It affects more than one million Americans each year.
  3. Psoriatic Arthritis: This is a combination of arthritis and psoriasis.
  4. Gout: Caused by high uric acid levels, gout causes attacks in the joints that are extremely painful. The pain can be so severe that it wakes people up at night.
  5. Lupus: Lupus affects more than one million Americans each year, and although it can affect any part of the body, arthritis is a common symptom. Lupus patients also have a higher risk of developing heart disease, kidney problems, and seizures.
  6. Fibromyalgia: Fibromyalgia is a condition that causes widespread pain in the body, as well as fatigue, memory problems, and mood changes.
  7. Sjogren's Syndrome: Sjogren's Syndrome is an autoimmune disorder that affects the glands that produce saliva and tears.
  8. Still's Disease: This arthritis causes arthritic flares in kids and teens, often accompanied by fever.
  9. Juvenile Arthritis: Although this arthritis commonly affects children, its symptoms are similar to RA. It usually starts between age four and seven years old but can also develop in adults.

Symptoms of Arthritis andRheumatic Diseases

Because arthritis and rheumatic diseases affect different parts of the body, patients experience a wide variety of symptoms. These include:

Who Can Treat Arthritis and Rheumatic Diseases?

There are many different types of arthritis and rheumatic diseases, so it's important to find a doctor who specializes in the condition you have. Your primary care doctor may be able to treat some forms of arthritis, but for more complex cases, you'll need to see a rheumatologist.

Rheumatologists are doctors who specialize in arthritis and other rheumatic diseases. They can diagnose your condition, create a treatment plan, and monitor your progress.
They may also refer you to other specialists, such as a neurologist if you have lupus or a cardiologist if you have heart disease.

What is the Treatment for Arthritis and Rheumatic Diseases?

The treatment for arthritis and rheumatic diseases depends on the type of arthritis a person has. Treatments that may be prescribed include:

Living With Arthritis and Rheumatic Diseases

If you have arthritis or a rheumatic disease, many things can help make your life easier. These include:

Author: This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional advice regarding health or finances. It is not intended to endorse any individual or company. This article is AI-generated and may contain inaccuracies or unreliable information. Readers should consult a qualified professional for personal advice.