Warning Signs of Arthritis

Arthritis is a common condition that causes pain and inflammation within a joint. About 10 million people have this problem in the India. Many people struggle with pain during the early stages of arthritis, often waiting until the pain becomes unbearable before seeking advice and treatment. However the symptoms are easier to treat when caught as early as possible.

Did you know? Although arthritis commonly affects people over the age of 50, there are around 27,000 people under 25 living with arthritis in the India.

Main Symptoms-

1. Joint Pain and Stiffness –

Joint Stiffness often occurs after a period of inactivity, this is why stiffness in the morning is common. Joints stiffness and pain can reduce mobility and the range of movement.

What to do :-

Placing something cold on the affected joint will help to contract the surroundings blood vessels and numb some of the pain.

2. Pain in the Big Toe –

Gout is a form of arthritis that occurs because of a problem in the way our bodies metabolize uric acid. It commonly affects the big toe. The result is painful swelling and the surrounding skin is redden and hot to touch.

What to do :-

Resting and elevating the affected area will ensure you avoid damaging the joint. Applying ice can also help to reduce the pain. Early treatment can help to reduce the frequency and severity of pain.

3. Bumps on the Fingers –

Bumps, known as ‘bony spurs’, may appear on the finger joints. This is one of the leading symptoms of osteoarthritis and often affects women. The resultant swelling and pain reduce mobility and make simple tasks such as buttoning a shirt or tying shoelaces tricky. Arthritis in the hands can also be a symptom of rheumatoid arthritis, if both hands and feet are affected simultaneously.

What to do :-

Physiotherapy and stretching the affected area can help to soothe pain.

4. Trouble Sleeping –

Many painful joint conditions also affect sleeping patterns, and result in us being awakened by pain throughout the night. The first signs of gout often occur at night and this is generally considered to be one of the most painful forms of arthritis.

What to do :-

A warming bath before bed can help to relax the joints.

5. Fatigue Symptoms –

Fatigue and flu symptoms can be an indication of rheumatoid arthritis. In these cases joint pain and swelling often affects the entire body rather than one specific joint. Other symptoms of RA include weight loss, chronic tiredness and anemia.

What to do :-

Try to strike a balance between work and rest, so as not to overload you. Visit your doctor if you think you may have developed fatigue or flu symptoms.

6. Red, Patchy or Scaly Skin –

This could be due to the development of psoriatic arthritis; a type of arthritis that is also associated with psoriasis. In addition to the painful joints commonly associated with arthritis, the skin also become red and inflamed making it appear patchy or scaly. This can affect the joint in the body, and the severity of pain can vary.

What to do :-

If you suffer from these symptoms, consult your doctor. In the meantime, applying hot or cold packs to affected areas can help to numb pain and relax muscles.