Recognizing Arthritis, a disease that is identical to the U . factor

Hello Hermina's friends, do you often hear that arthritis is caused by the U factor? So what and why does this arthritis occur? Arthritis is a condition where there is swelling and pain in one or more joints. This condition can also be characterized by stiffness in the affected joint. This pain generally gets worse with age.

What causes arthritis?

There are various causes of arthritis. These include infections, degenerative diseases, autoimmune diseases, and the buildup of uric acid crystals

Based on the cause, arthritis can be divided into two types:

1. Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis is the most common type of arthritis and is prone to attack the elderly. This condition occurs because the cartilage has been eroded and occurs over a long period of time. Infection or joint injury is also one of the  causes of this inflammatory process.

2. Rheumatoid Arthritis
Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease, meaning that a person's immune system attacks the lining of the joint capsule (a membrane that covers the entire joint). When the immune system attacks this membrane, inflammation and swelling occurs. This trip will damage the cartilage of the joint.

What factors can increase the risk of arthritis?

• Family history
  • Some types of arthritis run in families, if a parent or sibling has this condition, you are at risk for it too
• Age
  • The risk of osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis and gout increases with age
• Gender
  • Women are more at risk of developing arthritis than men
• Previous history of joint injury
  • Individuals who have experienced injuries to the joints, for example injuries during sports activities, will be more at risk of developing this disease
• Obesity
  • Being overweight can put pressure on joints, especially the knees, hips, and spine

Arthritis is characterized by symptoms such as mild to very severe pain, stiffness in the joints, swelling of the joints, redness of the inflamed joints, and limited or impaired joint space.

To diagnose arthritis, the doctor will take a history and physical examination, as well as perform some necessary supporting examinations. These include: laboratory tests, x-rays, CT scans, MRIs, and ultrasounds.

After carrying out the necessary series of examinations, the doctor will provide therapy according to the patient's condition and needs, through drugs, physical therapy, or surgery if needed.

How to prevent arthritis?

Arthritis can be prevented by having a healthy diet, exercising diligently, maintaining an ideal body weight, and always being careful when doing activities to avoid injury.

When experiencing the above symptoms, immediately contact doctor Antonius Haratua Pakpahan, SpOT at Hermina Metland Hospital, Cibitung to get further treatment. He practices on Monday, Tuesday, Friday at 08.00-10.00 and Thursday at 16.00-18.00