Are you suffering from arthritis? Arthritis takes many forms. The most common forms of arthritis are osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis and gout. Arthritis is a joint problem that commonly exhibits mild to debilitating symptoms of swelling, pain and stiffness. Osteoarthritis is a type of arthritis that is caused by chips and cracks in the smooth cartilage that lines the joints. Studies show that almost half of people age 65 and above are affected with osteoarthritis. The areas commonly affected are the hands, knees and hip. Osteoarthritis is usually exhibited as a joint pain that is made worst by moving the affected joints.

Rheumatoid arthritis usually occurs when there is inflammation and thickening of the capsule lining that surrounds the joint resulting to pain, stiffness and swelling. This type of arthritis can also cause inflammation in the eyes and lungs. Some experts believe that rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease where the body attacks itself and its own tissues. Rheumatoid arthritis commonly affects women more than men. It is also observed that this type of arthritis commonly affects people between the ages 20 and 50 years old. This often exhibits a painful joint that is red, swollen and may feel warm. People affected with this type of arthritis may experience low fever, less appetite with accompanying loss of weight and an over-all feeling of sickness. Morning stiffness may also be felt. Skin lumps may appear; usually on the buttocks, elbows and fingers. Dry eyes and mouth are also common symptoms.

Gout is a form of arthritis that commonly affects men ages 40 and above. A high blood level of uric acid is usually the causative factor. Uric acid is our body's waste product, which forms crystals in the joints. These crystals cause the immune system of the body to react. The immune system attacks the body's own tissues as if they are enemies. This reaction causes the joint to become painful and inflamed. A person suffering from gout may experience sudden severe joint pain most commonly affecting the wrist, knee or big toe. Fever, redness and swelling around the joint are common symptoms.

The treatment plan for arthritis depends upon the type and the severity of the symptoms. Most often, arthritis can be treated with gentle exercise. This can keep the bones and muscles strong. Pain killers can be taken to reduce the symptoms like pain, stiffness and swelling. In case of gout, the uric acid level in the blood can be controlled and lowered by drugs. Osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis in their severe forms may require surgery. This procedure will attempt to smooth the joint surfaces or even replace the damaged joints.

Finally, some home remedies may help reduce the symptoms of arthritis. Aspirin or anti-inflammatory drugs that are suggested by your doctor may ease the pain caused by rheumatoid arthritis. For osteoarthritis, acetaminophen may do the trick. Experts suggest that people with gout should not take aspirin. Aspirin, ibuprofen or naproxen should not be taken in combination. Always take these pain relievers separately. Cold packs applied to swollen and painful joints 10 minutes every hour will be helpful. On the other hand, warm packs will be beneficial for treating stiffness. Some over the counter lotion, which contain methyl salicylate can provide some pain relief. It is also advisable to put the affected joints into a full range of gentle motion daily to prevent stiffness. Stiffness can also be relieved through warm shower or bath early in the morning. People with arthritis should never grip objects tightly for a long time. Rest is recommended.