Symptoms of Arthritis – Part 1

Did you know that there are over 100 different types of conditions loosely called arthritis? These conditions range from Gout to Lupus to the infamous Osteoarthritis which affects over 27 million Americans. (1) Everyone has aches and pains, especially as we age. So what differentiates an ache or pain that should be evaluated by your doctor and that which you can wait out?

Any joint pain that is associated with arthritis does not disappear within a couple of days of rest. Most aches and pains that are fleeting or athletic injuries show progressive healing process while pain associated with an arthritic condition is more chronic.

Osteoarthritis is the most common diagnosis of arthritis in the world today. Progressive stiffness without any chills, noticeable swelling or fever is usually associated with the gradual onset of Osteoarthritis in individuals who are older than 40 or 50 years old. On the other hand, painful swelling, inflammation and stiffness, especially upon awakening, can be the signs of Rheumatoid Arthritis. (2)

Gout is an arthritic condition caused by the buildup of uric acid in the blood. This causes urate crystals to form in a joint, most commonly the big toe. A flare-up of Gout often happens overnight and quickly. Children who suffer from intermittent fever, loss of appetite, weight loss and a blotchy rash may be exhibiting the symptoms of a type of Rheumatoid Arthritis.

As you can see there are multiple different types of symptoms that accompany arthritis because there are multiple different types of arthritic conditions. However, the one commonality between these diagnoses and symptoms is pain and stiffness. In some individuals this will be accompanied by swelling, redness and warmth, in others it will be accompanied by fever and still others will be accompanied by severe pain or blotchy rashes over the body.