A joint is that part of the human body where 2 bones get connected with each other. In between them there will be a slight gap, which is enclosed with a fragile membrane known as synovial membrane. Its secretion, the synovial fluid acts a successful lubricant that enables the smooth movement of bones. An elastic material known cartilage envelops the bones. Arthritis is linked with any damage to this joint system. Rheumatoid arthritis affects synovial membrane and osteoarthritis affects the cartilage.
In case of rheumatoid arthritis, synovial membrane is inflamed, as it becomes stiff and thick. Osteoarthritis causes joint pains as cartilage fails to cushion the bone contact. In both cases, arthritic pain takes place when one bone directly rubs with the other bone. Usually, both women and men are equally affected by this disorder. Majority of rheumatoid arthritis are diagnosed between the age group of 35 and 50.
Though symptoms vary from person to person, there are sure general characteristics. An ordinary arthritic symptom is morning stiffness. This affects the person’s mobility. Frequent joint locks and clicks when knee is bending is yet one more symptom. In some cases, redness is spotted in affected joints.
Along with arthritis, the person is likely to expand some other ailments such as fever and breathing troubles. Losing weight is also ordinary among arthritic patients. However, a person showing any of these symptoms cannot be generalized as a case of arthritis as these signs may also point to other illnesses. Only x-rays can provide the actual portrait of the joint circumstance. A loss of joint space is a clear case of arthritis. Blood test helps in the analysis of rheumatoid arthritis. Certain arthritic types are analyzed by examining fluid taken from the affected joint.
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