What Is Arthritis And How Does It Affect The Body

Arthritis is inflammation in the joints resulting from a variety of different causes including diseases, infections, and genetic defects. The inflammation can cause pain and stiffness in one or more joints, as well as swelling in the surrounding tissues. Arthritis pain typically worsens with age and can greatly affect one's quality of life if not managed properly.

The two most common types of arthritis are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Osteoarthritis is a degenerative disease that affects the cartilage in the joints. As we age, the cartilage that surrounds our bones starts to wear down, thus resulting in bone surfaces rubbing against one another and causing pain and discomfort. It typically affects weight-bearing joints such as the knees and hips, but can also wreak havoc on other areas of the body like the fingers and elbows. One suffering from osteoarthritis is at risk of developing bone spurs which are growths on the bone that can cause muscle and nerve damage.

Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease that attacks the lining of the joints, referred to as the synovial membrane. As the membrane gets worn down, the cartilage and bone in the joint becomes severely weakened and eventually destroyed. Parts of the body that are typically affected by rheumatoid arthritis are the fingers, wrists, elbows, and knees, although the disease can also affect other areas of the body like the lungs, eyes, and skin. Women between the ages of 30 and 50 are at the highest risk for developing rheumatoid arthritis, although it affects men and the elderly as well.

Severe arthritis can make it extremely difficult to perform daily tasks such as bathing, getting dressed, preparing meals, or running errands. Visiting Angels can help assist your loved one with a variety of different tasks in the comfort of their own home. Our fully-trained, compassionate homecare providers will work with your family to develop a plan to suit the individualized needs of your loved one. Our caregivers are flexible and will work around your schedule to provide the most positive experience for you and your loved one. Visiting Angels is here to make living with arthritis more manageable and to improve your loved one's quality of life.