WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT ARTHRITIS

At Vital Advanced Medical Center, our Primary Care Doctor in Tampa has seen patients present with Arthritis. Arthritis is a common condition that affects millions of people worldwide. In the United States, approximately 58.5 million adults (about 24% of the adult population) have some form of arthritis. Globally arthritis affects an estimated 400 million people, with osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis being the most common types.

Arthritis prevalence increases with age. It's more common in adults over 65, but it can affect people of all ages, including children (in the form of juvenile arthritis). Regarding gender most affected, women are more likely than men to be diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. Overall, about 60% of adults with arthritis are women.

There is also an economic impact. The CDC estimates that arthritis results in about $140 billion in direct medical costs annually in the U.S. It also contributes to significant indirect costs due to lost wages and decreased productivity.

What are the types of arthritis?

Arthritis is a general term that refers to inflammation of the joints, which can cause pain, swelling, stiffness, and decreased range of motion. There are over 100 different types of arthritis, but the most common include:

Osteoarthritis. This is the most prevalent form, often associated with aging. It occurs when the protective cartilage on the ends of bones wears down over time, leading to pain and stiffness, especially in weightbearing joints like the knees, hips, and spine. Osteoarthritis is the most common type, accounting for about 27 million cases in the U.S.

Secondly, there is Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA), an autoimmune disorder where the body's immune system attacks the synovium (the lining of the joints), causing inflammation, pain, and eventually joint damage. It often affects joints on both sides of the body and can lead to systemic issues. Rheumatoid arthritis affects approximately 1.5 million adults in the U.S.

Next, there is Psoriatic Arthritis, which is associated with psoriasis, this type can cause joint pain, stiffness, and swelling, and it may also affect the skin and nails.

Gout is a form of inflammatory arthritis caused by the accumulation of uric acid crystals in the joints, leading to sudden and severe pain, redness, and swelling, often starting in the big toe.

Ankylosing Spondylitis is a type of arthritis that primarily affects the spine, leading to severe inflammation, pain, and eventual fusion of the vertebrae.

What are the Symptoms of Arthritis?

Common symptoms of arthritis include joint pain and tenderness, swelling and inflammation, stiffness, especially in the morning or after

sitting for long periods, a reduced range of motion and fatigue (particularly in autoimmune forms).

What are the Causes of Arthritis?

The exact cause of arthritis varies by type, but factors may include genetics, age, gender (some types are more common in women), previous joint injuries and obesity which causes increased stress on joints.

How is Arthritis Diagnosed?

Diagnosis typically involves Physical examinations, medical history, Imaging tests (like X-rays or MRIs), and Blood tests (to check for markers of inflammation or specific types of arthritis)

What is the Treatment for Arthritis?

While there is no cure for arthritis, many treatments can help manage symptoms, such as Medications (pain relievers, anti-inflammatories, disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs for RA), Physical therapy, Lifestyle changes (diet, exercise, weight management), Hot/cold therapies and in some cases, surgery (like joint replacement). Our primary care physician in Tampa evaluates patients with symptoms of arthritis, recommends or prescribes medications, and addresses lifestyle changes and exercises. In severe cases, we are able to refer you to specialists.

Living with Arthritis

Arthritis can lead to limitations in daily activities, with nearly 50% of people with arthritis reporting difficulty in performing at least one daily activity.

People with arthritis often have other health issues, such as heart disease, obesity, diabetes, and depression, which can complicate

management and treatment. These statistics highlight the significant impact arthritis has on individuals and healthcare systems.

Managing arthritis often involves a holistic approach, including regular exercise to maintain flexibility and strength, eating a balanced diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods, and staying informed about the condition and treatment options.

If you have been told that you have arthritis, or have the symptoms mentioned before, then see a professional physician for help. If you are in the Florida area, perhaps a consultation with our Primary Care Doctor in Tampa may be in order for an evaluation. In cases of severe arthritis, we are able to refer you to a specialist to make sure you get the proper care.