Arthritis, known as joint inflammation, is a type of rheumatic disease and is generally more common in women than in men. The term “arthritis” is used as a general term for over 100 types of rheumatic diseases.

There are many types of arthritis, with different symptoms and different treatments, and it can occur in almost any joint in the body. It can be seen in every age group.

The symptoms typically include restricted movement in the joints and severe pain in the joint area. Additionally, stiffness occurs in the joint area due to contractions caused by pain, and the person has difficulty moving the joint area for a while. As the disease progresses without treatment, deformities may develop in the joint. These deformities are more commonly seen in bony areas, especially in the fingers. The initial symptoms of the disease, pain and swelling, are usually more pronounced in the morning and gradually decrease in severity throughout the day.

What Are the Causes of Joint Inflammation?

Although the exact cause of arthritis has not yet been fully explained, there are some factors that contribute to the development of arthritis. Genetic predisposition has been identified as a factor contributing to the development of the disease, especially inflammatory arthritis, where the immune system mistakenly attacks the body’s own tissues, causing joint inflammation.

The presence of certain molecules in individuals with joint inflammation, in higher amounts compared to others, may suggest that the disease is influenced by genetic factors. These molecules could be related to the immune response that contribute to the development of arthritis.

Joint injury is another factor that contributes to the development of arthritis. If joint inflammation occurs as a result of an impact or injury, it is referred to as “traumatic arthritis.

When to see a doctor?

• Ongoing joint pain
• Joint stiffness
• Joint swelling
• Tenderness or pain when touched
• Restricted movement
• Warmth and redness in a joint

If any of these symptoms last longer than 2 weeks, you should definitely see a doctor.

Early diagnosis is very important in this disease. The patient should be monitored and the consequences of joint inflammation should be identified well.