Arthritis is actually not a single condition but rather a group of conditions, in which there is damage caused to the bones and joints of the body. Although arthritis typically occurs in older aged people, it can develop in anyone of any age, and because of its incredible commonality it is a very important condition to watch out for.

Types

There are actually a few different types of arthritis, with the most common being: rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, and gouty arthritis. The first, rheumatoid arthritis, is a chronic and inflammatory disorder, one that causes the immune system to basically attack itself. It is one of the most disabling and painful types of arthritis.

Rheumatoid arthritis is a systematic disease, and this means that it affects various extra-articular tissues throughout the body, including the skin and blood vessels. The cause is unknown but it is believed that it is infectious.

Psoriatic arthritis is different than its counterparts because it occurs in people who suffer from psoriasis, which is a severe dry skin condition. The treatment of this form of arthritis is very similar to that of rheumatoid however, as the treatments in both cases are directed at reducing and controlling the inflammation that is caused by the disease.

Gouty arthritis is different in that it is due to a congenital disorder, and the classic symptoms are burning pain, swelling, inflammation, and stiffness in the joint and surrounding area. This condition often affects a few areas of the body in particular, including the ankles, heels, knees, wrists, elbows, fingers, and the spine.

Diagnosis

Before the proper method of treatment can be determined for your specific condition, there has to be a diagnosis made, which can be done once your doctor has performed a routine examination. Blood tests and x-rays are often performed to make the diagnosis, and screening blood tests may be indicated as well if certain arthritides are suspected.

Although there is no surefire method of prevention, there are certain things that you can do in order to attempt at guarding yourself against development of the disease, and for instance by making sure you are getting enough calcium, you will be keeping your bones and joints healthy and strong, and thus will be less likely of developing an arthritic condition.

At first sight of any arthritic symptoms, you need to make sure that you get in to see your doctor as soon as you possibly can, so that he can make a proper diagnosis and assessment and get you on the correct path of treatment to help relieve your symptoms.