Arthritis

Arthritis refers to more than 100 conditions and diseases affecting the joints or connective tissues. It can develop suddenly or gradually and may lead to serious complications such as kidney disease, blindness or early death. Arthritis affects about 1 in 5 U.S. adults.

Symptoms & Diagnosis

Your symptoms will depend on the type of arthritis you have, but common symptoms can include:

• Joint pain
• Stiffness
• Swelling of joints and surrounding tissues

Healthcare providers can diagnose arthritis by learning more about you:

• Reviewing your health and family history
• Doing a physical exam
• Taking X-rays
• Doing lab tests, if needed

Once you know the type of arthritis you have, you can work with your provider to decide on the best ways to manage and treat it.

Common Types of Arthritis

• Ankylosing spondylitis
• Fibromyalgia
• Gout
• Juvenile arthritis
• Osteoarthritis
• Psoriatic arthritis
• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Scleroderma
• Systemic lupus erythematosus (Lupus or SLE)

For more information on specific types of arthritis, visit the Arthritis Foundation.

Living with Arthritis

Managing your arthritis symptoms helps you:

• Prevent or delay it from getting worse or causing disability
• Reduce pain
• Improve your overall health and well-being

Ways to Manage Arthritis

Five ways to manage arthritis and its symptoms:

• Learn self-management skills
• Be physically active
• Manage your weight
• Protect your joints
• Talk to your healthcare provider if you have symptoms

The earlier you receive an arthritis diagnosis, the sooner you can begin treatment to lessen its effects and prevent or delay it from getting worse.

Treatment Options

There is no cure for arthritis, but it can be treated and managed.

Treatments vary depending on the type of arthritis you have. They may include:

• Over-the-counter medicines
• Physical therapy
• Prescription medicines
• Surgery, if needed

Your provider will talk to you about these and other treatment options that are right for your arthritis type and personal needs.