Arthritis

Most chronic joint problems are due to arthritis, a collection of long-term conditions causing joint deterioration, stiffness, and pain. Visit Tyler Internal Medicine Associates P.A. at their office in Tyler or Lindale, Texas, if you need help managing arthritis symptoms. The dedicated medical professionals offer effective treatments and chronic care management for patients with all forms of arthritis. Call your nearest office or request an appointment online today for compassionate arthritis care.

Is arthritis just one disease?

Arthritis is a general term for diseases causing chronic joint pain. It has numerous forms — over 100 conditions come under the arthritis umbrella. Some cause widespread joint pain, while others affect specific joints. Many forms are rare, but more common ones include:

• Osteoarthritis
• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Psoriatic arthritis
• Gout
• Septic arthritis

Of these, more people develop osteoarthritis than any other kind. 

Why does arthritis develop?

Arthritis has various causes. Infections can trigger septic arthritis, while gout develops when uric acid forms crystals in your joints — typically the big toe, but gout can also affect the knees and other joints. Rheumatoid and psoriatic arthritis are autoimmune disorders. They develop when your immune system has a flaw that makes it attack healthy cells. 

Osteoarthritis (by far the most common form) develops over decades as wear-and-tear erodes the protective cartilage on the ends of your bones. Without this tough, slippery coating, the bone ends catch and rub together, creating inflammation. 

What symptoms might arthritis cause?

Arthritis symptoms vary according to your condition and severity, but all forms cause long-term or recurring joint pain. 

Gout attacks are intense, causing hours or days of immense pain and heat before fading away. Autoimmune arthritic conditions can cause problems like fevers and digestive issues.

Osteoarthritis affects many joints, although it’s often worse in the hands, hips, and knees. The pain you feel may start as a dull ache but often increases into agonizing flares with reddened skin and swelling. The joints become stiff and may twist into distorted shapes. They’re likely to be weak, and you gradually lose function.

Arthritis symptoms often worsen as the disease progresses. They can be highly disabling, significantly reducing mobility and quality of life.

What treatments help with arthritis?

Although arthritis is incurable, Tyler Internal Medicine Associates P.A. offers several treatments that help you manage your symptoms. These include:

• Physical therapy
• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs
• Serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors
• Lubricating hyaluronic acid injections
• Anti-inflammatory corticosteroid injections
• Disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs for autoimmune disorders

Lifestyle changes are also crucial to managing arthritis symptoms. Excess body weight puts unnecessary strain on the joints, so maintaining a healthy weight is vital. A healthy diet, regular gentle exercise, and reducing stress can also make a significant difference.

Call Tyler Internal Medicine Associates P.A. or book an appointment online today for expert long-term arthritis care.