Acute arthritis refers to the rapid or sudden onset of joint inflammation and pain. But what causes this sudden discomfort and how does it relate to other forms of arthritis? Let’s dive into the details.
Understanding Acute Arthritis:
Acute arthritis can cause your joints to hurt suddenly and can be triggered by various processes, including autoimmune diseases. In these cases, the body mistakenly attacks its healthy cells and tissues, leading to inflammation. For further information on the causes and treatments of acute arthritis, click here.
Inflammatory Arthritis:
This type of arthritis can manifest due to several reasons. Lyme disease can cause inflammatory arthritis presenting as acute onset monoarticular inflammation, often in the knee. Viral infections like hepatitis B, hepatitis C, and parvovirus B19 can cause polyarticular inflammatory arthritis that might mimic the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis. Additionally, 50% of gout patients may experience podagra, a form of acute onset inflammatory arthritis. Find more about inflammatory arthritis on StatPearls.
Common Arthritis Symptoms:
The primary symptoms of arthritis include joint pain and stiffness. These symptoms typically intensify with age. Osteoarthritis, one of the most common types, results from the breakdown of cartilage – the tissue covering the ends of bones where they form joints. For more on arthritis symptoms and causes, visit the Mayo Clinic.
Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA):
RA is the most prevalent form of inflammatory arthritis. It usually affects the small joints of the hands and feet. The joint or tendon linings become inflamed, causing warmth, pain, and stiffness. Blood tests can detect the presence of specific proteins confirming RA in 30% to 60% of individuals. RA also carries risks like artery blockages and lung disease. Dive deeper into RA and its symptoms at the Mayo Clinic.
Reactive Arthritis:
The symptoms of reactive arthritis typically start 1 to 4 weeks post-exposure to a triggering infection. Common symptoms include joint pain, especially in the knees, ankles, and feet, and eye inflammation. More details on reactive arthritis can be found at the Mayo Clinic.
In conclusion, understanding the type and cause of arthritis can greatly help in its management and treatment. Always consult with a healthcare professional when experiencing joint pain to get an accurate diagnosis and appropriate care.
