What is arthritis

Arthritis is a condition that causes pain and inflammation in the joints. Joints are the places where two bones meet, such as the hip, knee, or shoulder. Arthritis can make it hard to do everyday activities, such as getting dressed or walking.

There are many types of arthritis. The most common type is osteoarthritis. Other types include rheumatoid arthritis and psoriatic arthritis. Arthritis can happen at any age, but it is more common in adults over age 65. Women are also more likely to get arthritis than men.

What causes arthritis

The cause of arthritis depends on the type of arthritis you have. Osteoarthritis happens when the cartilage that cushions your joints breaks down over time. This can be from wear and tear on your joints from using them too much or from an injury. Rheumatoid arthritis happens when your body's immune system attacks the lining of your joints by mistake, causing inflammation. Psoriatic arthritis happens when you have psoriasis, a condition that causes patchy, scaly skin lesions. People with psoriasis are more likely to get this type of arthritis. Genetics may also play a role in some types of arthritis.

What are the symptoms of arthritis

The main symptom of all types of arthritis is pain and stiffness in the joints. You may also have:

• Swelling
• Redness
• Warmth around the joint
• Limited range of motion in the joint
• Weakness
• Fatigue

In some cases, you may also have fever, weight loss, or problems thinking clearly. These could be signs of another health problem, so it's important to see your doctor if you have these symptoms.